You might have gum disease if you’re struggling with tooth loss, foul breath, or bleeding gums. Gum disease is a widespread oral health issue that affects a large portion of the population in Canada. If ignored, it could result in severe dental problems. At Kitchener Dentist Lancaster Dental, we want to give you the information you need to understand gum disease, its causes, and how to avoid it. We’ll cover all there is to know about gum disease in this blog post.

Gum Disease: What Is It?

Periodontal disease, sometimes referred to as gum disease, is an infection that affects the tissues supporting the teeth as well as the gums. It is brought on by bacteria that flourish in dental plaque, a bacterial film that accumulates on the teeth. Plaque can become tartar if it is not eliminated by brushing and flossing, which can only be done by a dental professional.

Gingivitis is the name for the early stage of gum disease, which is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that can result in the gums receding and the teeth becoming loose if left untreated.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease risk can be influenced by a number of factors, including:

  • Bad Oral Hygiene: Gum disease can develop as a result of neglecting to brush and floss frequently.
  • Tobacco Use: Smoking and other tobacco use can make gum disease more likely.
  • Genetics: Certain people may be more genetically predisposed to gum disease.
  • Diabetes: Gum disease is more likely to affect people with diabetes.
  • Medications: Certain medications, including several antidepressants and antihypertensive medications, can raise the risk of gum diseases.
  • Hormone Changes: Gum disease risk might be raised by hormonal changes that occur during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.

Gum Disease Signs and Symptoms

Depending on how severe the problem is, gum disease can present with a variety of symptoms. Here are a few typical signs of gum disease:

  • Gums that are red, swollen, or sore
  • Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
  • Bad breath
  • Receding gums
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Modifications to the bite or how the teeth fit together
  • Pus between the teeth and gums
  • To get a good diagnosis and treatment, it’s critical to make an appointment with your dentist if you encounter any of these symptoms.

Taking Care of Gum Disease

The severity of the issue affects how gum disease is treated. Your dentist might advise non-surgical procedures like these for minor gum disease cases:

  • Scaling and root planning: A thorough cleaning technique that cleans the teeth and roots of germs and tartar.
  • Antibiotics: To treat the infection and stop it from spreading, your dentist may advise taking antibiotics.

In cases of gum disease that are more serious, your dentist might advise surgical procedures like:

  • Flap surgery: This technique lifts the gums in order to eliminate tartar buildup and shallow the pocket.
  • Bone grafts: This technique replaces lost bone and tissue caused by periodontitis.
  • Guided tissue regeneration: A technique for stimulating the creation of new bone and gum tissue using membranes.

Prevention of Gum Disease

Keeping up with proper oral hygiene practices is the most effective approach to preventing gum disease. The following advice will assist you in avoiding gum disease:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day: Use fluoride toothpaste and brush your teeth for two minutes each time.
  • Daily flossing: To get plaque and food fragments out from between your teeth, floss at least once a day.
  • Use mouthwash: Freshen your breath and fight bacteria by using an antiseptic mouthwash.
  • Consume a balanced diet: To maintain the health of your teeth and gums, eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
  • Put an end to your tobacco usage: If you smoke or use other tobacco products, stopping can help lower your risk of developing gum disease.
  • Arrange routine dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist to maintain the health of your teeth and gums and to identify any problems as soon as they arise.

You can dramatically lower your risk of having gum disease by implementing these suggestions.

For Your Dental Needs, Call Kitchener Dentist Lancaster Dental

Our goal at Kitchener Dentist Lancaster Dental is to assist people in achieving their ideal oral health. Preventive care, restorative dentistry, and aesthetic dentistry are just a few of the dental services provided by our skilled dental team. Please get in touch with us if you see any signs of gum disease or have any questions regarding your dental health. Together, we’ll create a specialized treatment strategy that caters to your specific requirements and aids in giving you a radiant, healthy smile.


DISCLAIMER:
The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.