Do your gums bleed every time you brush or floss? You may have periodontal or gum disease. Gum disease is inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria. The condition is fairly common, and most adults have some form of gum disease. Many people don’t seek treatment because they don’t feel any pain, or at least not in the beginning. It’s important to see your Trafalgar dentist right away for a Periodontal Disease Treatment. Ignoring the condition can lead to more serious problems.
How Gum Disease Develops
Gum disease starts when bacteria from plaque irritate the soft tissues that surround the teeth. You may notice that your gums are red and swollen, and that they bleed easily when you brush or floss. This early stage is called gingivitis.
If not treated, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis. At this stage, the gums start pulling away from the teeth and forming pockets where more bacteria can hide and accumulate. Bacteria destroy bone and more underlying tissues. Eventually, the tooth falls out.
The good news is, early stage gum disease is completely reversible. No damage has been done yet, so regular professional cleanings and proper oral hygiene are enough to restore your gums to good health. Advanced gum disease requires additional procedures, however.
Gum Disease Treatment
Dentist may recommend deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), the use of antibiotics,and oral hygiene instruction to treat advanced gum disease. Scaling and planing is like regular cleaning, but the dentist will also scrape away bacteria and toxins from the surfaces of the tooth roots. Your dentist will also use special tools to polish the root surfaces to make it difficult for bacteria to hide in the spaces. If conservative therapies fail to restore gum health, your dentist in Trafalgar may recommend pocket reduction surgery.
Schedule your next appointment for gum disease treatment at Trafalgar Dental Care! Call +61 3 5633 1185 now or use our online form.