Has your dentist mentioned periodontal disease during your regular checkups? If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease, here is some important information for you to know.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is a serious gum infection that develops from bacteria that is left to build up on the teeth and gums.
There are four stages of periodontal disease.
1. Gingivitis
Gingivitis, or gum disease, is an inflammation of the gums that usually presents with swelling or bleeding in the gums. Gingivitis is easily treated which is one of the reasons it’s so important to stay up to date with your regular dental visits. Treating gingivitis early is one of the best ways to prevent periodontal disease.
2. Early-stage periodontal disease
In the early stages of periodontal disease, the gums begin to peel away from the teeth creating gaps or pockets. Bacteria can build up in these pockets, and your gums begin to recede.
3. Moderate periodontal disease
If your periodontal disease continues to worsen, the gums will continue to recede and become painful and inflamed. In this stage, bone loss begins to occur in the jaw, and the teeth can begin to feel loose.
4. Advanced periodontal disease
Once periodontal disease has progressed to this level, the connective tissues that hold your teeth in place deteriorate. You will experience significant pain and discomfort, you will have difficulty chewing food, and tooth loss can occur.
What causes periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is caused by the accumulation of decaying food and debris on or between the teeth. When the teeth and mouth are not cleaned or cared for properly, these materials will erode the tooth enamel and cause irritation and infection in the gums.
If these problems are not identified and treated in their early stages, the problem will progress, and periodontal disease will develop.
What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?
The symptoms of periodontal disease include:
• Painful, bleeding gums
• Bad breath
• Pain or discomfort when eating
• Loose teeth
• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Bad taste in your mouth
How is periodontal disease treated?
Periodontal disease is treated differently depending on the level of severity and your unique situation. For some, the infection can be controlled by proper dental cleanings and antibiotics while for others, surgery is required.
If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease, it is imperative that you visit your dentist in South Oakville for an assessment and to start treatment as soon as possible.
Call the team at Trafalgar Village Dental to schedule an assessment today. For your convenience, ur dental office is staffed with an on-site periodontist, hence eliminating the need for outside referral. We’ll work with you to determine the health of your teeth and gums and discuss the treatment options that are best for you.