Gum disease is an infection caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. The bacteria in plaque infect the gums, causing them to become swollen, inflamed, and pull away from the teeth. The infection can also spread to the ligaments and bones that hold the teeth in place. Visit our experienced dentist at Main Street Dental for the best treatment for gum disease.
The Symptoms of Gum Disease
Persistent bad breath is one of the most common symptoms of gum disease. Many people do not realize that their bad breath may stem from their gums rather than their tongue. Another sign of gum disease is red, swollen, or tender gums. This is an indication that you have lost periodontal tissue or gum tissue, and that gum pockets have formed around your teeth.
Types of Gum Disease
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. Plaque buildup on the teeth and at the gum line can irritate the gums and cause them to swell. At-home hygiene is critical at this stage. Patients can prevent gingivitis from progressing by brushing and flossing regularly. During regularly scheduled cleanings, the Dentist in Salt Lake, UT can remove plaque and tartar buildup that home cleanings cannot reach and treat gingivitis.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease as it destroys your gum tissue and the underlying bone tissue. The disease is caused by bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup. When bacteria gets below the gum line, it infects your gums and teeth. This can lead to chronic inflammation.
This inflammation causes bone loss. The disease advances as the bone and gum tissue are destroyed. Gum recession, loose teeth, and tooth loss are common symptoms of periodontitis.
Aggressive Periodontitis
Aggressive periodontitis is a form of gum disease that results in rapid tissue loss. It’s caused by the same bacteria that causes gingivitis. However, this disease progresses much more quickly, causing gums to separate from the teeth. Bacteria also may spread to the bloodstream and affect other organs in the body.
Chronic Periodontitis
Chronic periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease that can cause tooth loss if left untreated. This form of gum disease is characterized by progressive gum inflammation. Over time, this inflammation causes the gum tissue to pull away from the tooth. Eventually, the gum line recedes so significantly that the teeth become loose. The teeth may eventually fall out.
How Is Gum Disease Treated?
Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease and the easiest to cure stage of gum disease. If gum disease is caught at this stage, it can be treated and even reversed. When caught early, treatment typically involves scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from the surface of the tooth. If gum disease is caught at a later stage, it may require more extensive treatment like periodontal surgery.
Get in touch with Main Street Dental at 3195 S Main St Ste 225, South Salt Lake, UT 84115, or call (801) 467-2255 for the best dental care customized to your specific needs.