When you experience aches or sensitivity in your teeth, you should see the dentist right away for treatment. But what about your gums, when should you be concerned about them? If you experience sore or bleeding gums, then we suggest seeing your Brighton, MA, dentist as soon as possible for periodontal treatment. We’re going to talk about identifying and treating gingivitis and gum disease, and when to alert your dentist.
The Warning Signs of Gum Disease
Gum disease occurs when our gums become inflamed. Also known as gingivitis, gum inflammation can be reversed if treated in a timely manner. Once periodontal disease develops, there is no cure, but routine care is necessary to prevent the onset of periodontitis, the advanced stage that could lead to adult tooth loss. Causes of inflammation vary, but often include poor oral hygiene, smoking and tobacco use, a family history of poor gum health, prolonged illness, or the use of certain medications or treatments. Warning signs to watch for include sudden soreness in the gums, as well as redness or bleeding when brushing or flossing. Don’t ignore changes to your gums, let us know right away.
How Do You Prevent Gum Disease?
Routine care helps limit the buildup of plaque and tartar, bacterial byproducts that inflame gum tissue. Each day, you should remember to brush your teeth for two minutes when you wake up and again before going to sleep. We also suggest flossing every night before going to bed. Every six months, you should visit your Brighton, MA, dentist for checkups and cleanings. A checkup allows us to watch your gums for warning signs of trouble, while a cleaning removes plaque completely from the surface of your teeth.
Treating the Disease
In the early stages, we may use a deep cleaning (known as a scaling and root planing) to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and roots, or antibiotic therapy. These treatments help reverse gingivitis and manage gum disease. For advanced cases, we may opt for gum surgery to remove the infected tissue and help your gums reach a healthier stage. If you have any questions about treating gum disease, or if you notice your gums bleed easily, then please see us right away for a diagnosis. Treating the issue early helps protect your smile from tooth loss.
Do You Need Periodontal Care?
At Brighton Family Dental Group, our team will work with you to ensure you enjoy optimal oral health. You can schedule an appointment or consultation with Dr. Villani or Dr. Kondrat by reaching out to our office at (617) 562-5210. We are proud to offer a range of dental services to patients from Brighton, Watertown, Cambridge, and all neighboring communities.
