Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Dr. Maria Wytko stresses the importance of the prevention, treatment, and management of gum disease to enhance your oral health and quality of life. You can always count on our TKO Dentistry team for care that exceeds your expectations.
What Is Gum Disease and What Are Its Causes?
Gum disease is a progressive condition characterized by the inflammation and infection of the tissues and supporting structures that keep the teeth in place. It usually results from plaque building up on the teeth and gum line, which irritates the gum tissue. If not treated, the early stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, can progress to periodontitis, which may result in gum recession, bone loss, loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss.
What Are the Warning Signs of Gum Disease?
In its early stages, gum disease only produces mild symptoms, which is why it often goes unnoticed. Regular exams and cleanings at TKO Dentistry allow us to detect early signs of gum inflammation and intervene before any damage occurs.
Common signs of gum disease as it progresses include the following:
- Red, swollen, and tender gums
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
- Persistent bad breath
- Tooth or gum pain and sensitivity
- Longer-looking teeth resulting from gum recession
- Changes in the way the teeth fit together
- Dentures that no longer fit the way they did
- Loose teeth and tooth loss
How Does Gum Disease Impact Your Overall Health?
Gum disease affects more than your smile. Research shows that bacteria and inflammation from the gums can enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of several health concerns, including the following:
- Heart Disease and Stroke: Gum disease nearly doubles the risk of cardiovascular problems due to bacteria and inflammation contributing to arterial plaque.
- Diabetes: Periodontal disease makes blood sugar harder to control, while treating gum disease can improve diabetic management.
- Alzheimer’s Disease: Oral bacteria such as P. gingivalis have been found in brain tissue, linking gum disease to faster cognitive decline.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Shared inflammatory pathways make gum disease more common and severe in patients with RA.
- Pregnancy Complications: Untreated gum disease is associated with preterm birth and low birth weight.
In short, protecting your gums also helps protect your overall health.
How Is Gum Disease Treated?
The first line of treatment for gum disease is commonly referred to as a deep cleaning, but is clinically known as scaling and root planing (SRP). The non-surgical procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from along and below your gum line to clean and smooth the tooth root surfaces. By creating a clean surface, SRP helps reduce bacterial buildup, encourages gum tissue to heal, and allows the gums to reattach more securely to the teeth.
The following are additional gum disease therapies we offer, depending on your unique needs:
- Laser Therapy: Our Fotona laser provides a gentle and comfortable tool for supporting your gum disease treatment. The non-surgical treatment effectively removes harmful bacteria from under your gums and promotes healthy tissue regeneration, decontaminating your periodontal pockets, promoting healing, and enhancing your gum health.
- OralDNA Microbial Testing: The innovative test helps detect pathogens linked to gum disease and poor oral health. The simple diagnostic tool helps us develop customized periodontal therapy to eradicate harmful bacteria, enhancing your gum health.
- Ozone Therapy: Ozone is a naturally occurring gas that consists of three oxygen atoms. In periodontal care, it is known for its antimicrobial and therapeutic properties, which help eliminate harmful bacteria and reduce inflammation in the gum pockets, promoting better oral health.
How Can You Lower the Risk of Gum Disease?
The following are some tips to keep your gums healthy and sound:
- At-Home Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to remove plaque and food particles that may irritate your gums and lead to inflammation.
- Regular Dental Visits: Make sure to keep up with your regular, twice-yearly dental checkups and cleanings. During these visits, we remove plaque and tartar, monitor your gum health, and address any issues early to prevent the progression of gum disease.
- Lifestyle Habits: Maintain a healthy, balanced diet, stay hydrated, and avoid tobacco products to reduce your risk of gum disease. Our team at TKO Dentistry is always happy to offer personalized tips and guidance on healthy habits to reduce the risk of periodontal disease.
- Manage Systemic Health Conditions: Certain health conditions can impact your oral health, such as diabetes, so being mindful of your gum health is important. There is a strong, two-way link between diabetes and gum disease, so keeping your blood sugar levels in check is critical for a healthy mouth.
- Know Your Risk Factors: Be aware that some people are genetically predisposed to gum disease, so if you have a family history, make sure to let your dentist know. Also, be mindful of hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause, that can make gums more prone to inflammation.
Gum Disease Care Near Me in North Scottsdale, AZ
At TKO Dentistry, we are proponents of prevention to keep your gums as healthy as possible. Dr. Wytko and her compassionate team are committed to providing personalized guidance and periodontal care tailored to your unique needs to help you maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile for life.
Ready to take the next step toward better oral health? Call us at (480) 896-7888 to schedule an appointment or follow this link to request one today! We look forward to helping care for all your family’s dental needs.
