What is Gum Disease?
Understanding The Risks and Stages Of Gum Disease:
Gum Disease is also known as periodontal disease. It is a serious gum infection that can cause damage to the soft tissues and jawbone. It is a major concern for oral health worldwide, affecting millions of people every year. The first stage is gingivitis, a reversible condition characterized by excessive plaque and calculus buildup on the teeth and gumline, swollen, red, and sometimes tender gums that bleed during brushing and flossing. If treated promptly, gingivitis is reversible through proper oral hygiene and professional dental care. However, if left untreated, it can progress to a more serious and irreversible condition known as periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more advanced stage of gum disease where the infection causes irreversible damage to the gum tissues, jawbone, and supporting structures of the teeth.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is often caused by incorrect oral hygiene, but other factors can increase risk, including smoking, diabetes, genetics and certain medications.
Is Gum Disease Common?
Gum disease is one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide; 30% of the adult population has moderate to severe gum disease.
What Happens If Gum Disease Is Untreated?
Left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and impact general health with increased risk of heart disease and pregnancy complications.
Reversible Gum Disease Treatment Plan Includes:
1. Professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth.
2. Personalized Oral Hygiene Instructions: You’ll receive a customized cleaning plan tailored to your needs.
3. Follow-up: We will reevaluate your gum health in the near future to confirm improvement and optimal health.
Non reversible Gum Disease Treatment
If non-reversible gum disease is diagnosed, a deep cleaning appointment for your teeth will need to be scheduled to minimize damage to the surrounding jawbone. This is done under sedation with nitrous oxide ( Also known as ‘Happy Gas’). Follow-up will occur 6 weeks after your cleaning appointment. We will monitor improvements and tweak your personalized home cleaning plan to ensure ongoing optimal gum health.