All You Need to Know About Gums and Periodontitis

Gum disease, or also known as periodontitis, is an infection that affects the gum tissues, bone and can cause a loss of a tooth. In fact, infection is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. In this blog, we will discuss periodontitis in detail to help you make an informed decision. We are here for you if you are looking for a dentist near you in Somerset, NJ.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Generally, gum disease is often caused by plaque buildup as a result of poor oral hygiene. You can prevent plaque buildup by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and floss them every evening. However, this action is not always enough, and that’s why it is vital to visit the dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings.

If plaque buildup is not dealt with as soon as possible, it hardens under your gum line, causing something we refer to as tartar. Tartar is tougher to remove even after brushing after every meal. If the tartar is not removed, it increases the risk of gingivitis.

Typically, the inflammation from gingivitis causes deep pockets between your teeth and gums. The pockets are then filled with plaque and tartar, making it a safe haven for bacteria to settle. If gingivitis is left for long without treatment, it progresses into gum disease. If gum disease is not treated on time, it leads to tooth loss as the bacteria attacks the bone, making the affected tooth loose.

What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

Unfortunately, many people only realize they have gum disease when it is too late, hence the reason it is often referred to as the “silent killer.” Luckily, there are some symptoms you could be on the lookout for to get treatment as early as possible. Some of these symptoms include:

• Teeth failing to fit together as they have always done
• Bleeding gums
• Bad breath when you wake up.
• Swollen gums
• Unexplainable spaces between your teeth.
• Pus between the teeth and gums
• Experiencing pain when chewing food
• Gums feeling tender than usual
• Receding gums: Gums pulling away from your teeth, making your teeth seem larger than normal.
• Teeth feeling loose

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is paramount to visit the dentist as soon as possible for a diagnosis. The earlier the infection is diagnosed, the higher the chances of getting rid of it once and for all. We are here for you if you are looking for a dentist in Somerset, NJ.

How Does a Periodontist Treat Gum Disease?

The good thing is the periodontal treatments are always effective, and you stand a chance of saving your natural tooth if you seek treatment at the right time. There are several treatments for the infection, and the dentist will choose the most suitable one, depending on the extent of the infection. Some of the most common treatments include:

• Scaling and root planing: These two procedures are used to get rid of any plaque buildup. During the scaling procedure, the dentist uses a scaler or an ultrasonic device. Root planing is used to smoothen the patient’s roots to discourage plaque buildup in the future.
• The use of antibiotics to control the infection
• Flap surgery for severe cases of gum disease.
• Soft tissue grafts to fix receding gums caused by the periodontal disease
• Guided tissue regeneration is used to grow the bone damaged by gum disease.

How Can Someone Prevent Gum Disease?

Like most infections, gum disease is preventable. In fact, you don’t even need to do anything special to prevent it. Here are some tips to help you out:

• Maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing every night, using mouthwash after flossing, and seeing the dentist every six months.
• Quit smoking and using tobacco products.
• Minimize your sugary intake. Avoid snacks and sugary drinks whenever possible.
• Listen to your dentist and follow their instructions.

KK Dental in Somerset

Talk to us if you are looking for an endodontist near you in Somerset, and let us help you. We will help diagnose the infection, treat it, and ensure you don’t struggle with it in the near future. Book an appointment now.