Can Your Dentist Cure Gum Disease?

Did you know that 50% of adults have a form of gum disease? Although it is almost always preventable, it is a leading cause of tooth loss. Not only can it wreak havoc on your dental health, but it can also increase your risk of several serious health issues, including heart disease. Early stages of gum disease can be cured, but if you put off treatment too long, you can suffer irreversible damage. Here’s why you shouldn’t ignore red, swollen, or bleeding gums.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an infection that’s caused by poor oral hygiene. Plaque and tartar accumulations harbor harmful bacteria that irritate and inflame the gums. With no treatment, the infection can destroy the supporting structures of your teeth, ultimately leading to tooth loss. The bacteria may also enter your bloodstream through the pressure of chewing, which can affect your general health negatively.

Gingivitis is Treatable

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. It causes red, swollen, and bleeding gums. It may also cause chronic bad breath or tooth sensitivity. It is easy to treat with changes to your home oral hygiene routine and a deep cleaning from your dentist. With the right aftercare routine, you can keep the infection at bay, like brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly.

Advanced Periodontitis Causes Permanent Damage

If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can progress to advanced periodontitis. At this point, significant damage can occur. Your gum line can pull away from your teeth, exposing your tooth roots and jawbone. Over time, your teeth may loosen and fall out, or they may need to be extracted. 

Advanced periodontitis is also linked to various health issues, including Alzheimer’s disease, heart attacks, diabetes, certain cancers, and respiratory illnesses. It can also cause preterm delivery and low birth rates. 

Your dentist can treat the infection, but you’ll need dental work to repair the damage, like gum grafting, tooth extractions, bone grafting, or dental prosthetics.

Flossing Keeps Your Gums Healthy

Good oral hygiene is the best way to keep your gums healthy. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2 full minutes. Although brushing is effective, your toothbrush can’t reach everywhere in your mouth. Flossing is the only way to remove plaque buildup that your toothbrush can’t reach. Floss your teeth every day and finish your oral hygiene routine with an antimicrobial mouthwash.

Besides keeping your mouth clean at home, visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll examine your mouth to look for any signs of gum disease to provide the quick treatment you need to stop the infection in its tracks.

About Dr. Monica Tiu

Dr. Tiu achieved her dental degree at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and has continued her training in various specialties, including gum disease and dental anesthesiology. She strives to provide the most up-to-date solutions in dentistry. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (410) 567-0729.