Detecting and Treating Periodontal Disease or Gingivitis

Most people don’t think about the health of their gums on a regular basis. Dentists will often inquire if their patients experience bleeding or swelling of the gum areas especially following routine brushing and/or flossing. The fact is that, unhealthy gums can cause other illnesses at times. Those individuals that develop autoimmune diseases, diabetes, heart issues and other health conditions often also have gingivitis or the more serious health condition called periodontal disease. Basically, gingivitis is used to describe minor gum bleeding and sensitivities, and periodontal disease then refers to a gum infection that goes below the surface of the gums and into the bone surrounding the teeth.

There are ways to detect and treat periodontal disease and/or gingivitis that everyone should take note of. Individuals that have noticed the common symptoms of sensitive teeth and/or gums, swelling, infections, mouth sores, exposed tooth roots and bleeding of the gum tissue should call their family dentist to schedule an appointment. A dentist can look for the signs of these two gum disorders, and they can also offer helpful treatments that can stop the disease in its tracks. Those that are having some of these symptoms can find expert periodontal disease treatment Naples FL residents may contact.

Some will note that their teeth might begin to appear larger than they were in the past. This occurs as the diseased gums begin to pull away from the teeth. This causes those sensitive places of the tooth that are normally beneath the gum line to now be exposed. Patients might also complain of extreme tooth sensitivity to hot or cold air, food or beverages. A trained dental professional can intervene in this detrimental process by prescribing specialized treatments and cleaning products made just for sensitive teeth and gums. These treatments typically help to strengthen the tooth’s enamel.

Periodontal disease can even get down into the bone that holds the teeth in their positions. Over time, that bone could begin to deteriorate. This can cause the teeth to become looser, and patients might even notice that their teeth have shifted enough to cause a major bite issue. Another big indicator of diagnosing these two gum diseases involves the presence of bad breath. Generally, this kind of bad smell on the breath occurs when periodontal disease is present. The bacteria inside the mouth that comes from plaque deposits results in this foul breath odor.

Dentists can provide treatment for periodontal disease that begins with a deep cleaning that targets bacteria, plaque or tarter on top of the gums and also underneath the gum surface. Various medications might be prescribed such as antibiotics, various gels or topical agents, an enzyme suppressant and others. If pockets are present near the teeth and nearby gum line, the dentist can perform a deeper cleaning by doing a flap procedure that allows the dentist to access the inner gum tissue. Afterwards, the dentist will stitch the gums and monitor the patient. Gum grafting surgery may also be performed.