Causes of Gum Disease
Mesa, AZ
 Periodontal disease is caused by the build-up of bacteria found naturally in the mouth. While these bacteria are necessary to oral and periodontal health, if they grow to unsafe levels, they can damage not only soft supportive gum structure but also teeth. If the bacteria are not treated, it can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. Once gum disease progresses too far, it is incurable and will have to be managed for the rest of the patient’s life. If you suspect you may have gum disease or just have questions regarding the symptoms of gum disease, please contact our team, including Dr. Timothy H. Kindt, DDS today at our dental practice.
Gum disease is popular among people who have poor oral hygiene or do not clean their teeth on a regular basis. People who regularly brush and floss are less prone to gum disease, however it does not rule out the fact that these people can also suffer from gum disease if they have a hormonal imbalance or they end up with an injury in their mouth. Although people believe that when they brush their teeth and regularly floss, they don’t have to stress about anything because they have clean teeth and they will not suffer from any dental issues.
The truth, however, is that no matter how regularly you brush and floss, a regular dental exam and gum disease screening is necessary because this helps to determine various underlying problems and treatments that are needed. Gum disease is one such problem that is easier to detect at an early stage and much more convenient to treat. If you haven't had a dental exam recently then make sure to drop by at Timothy H. Kindt, DDS so our dentists can ensure you have good oral hygiene and nothing to worry about.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease is sly and when it sets in, it actually takes a long time for the infection to show any symptoms. By the time you realize that you are suffering from gum disease, it becomes very difficult for you to treat it. Most procedures involve removing your tooth from the infected area and sometimes even a portion of your gums in order to ensure it does not spread. The bacteria that goes into your gums is stubborn and it can mean multiple visits to the dentist just to ensure that all of the bacteria is killed completely and there are no signs of any infection.
Sometimes you may have a perfect set of teeth and end up losing your teeth only because of these gum infections that are difficult to treat. Regular examinations not only help to identify the problem at an early stage, but also ensures that you do not have to suffer from total tooth loss. Gum disease can be very difficult to deal with and when it sets into your gum and spreads to the root this means having to wait for a long time before you can even get a tooth replaced. All of these problems can be avoided by simple regular visits and by making sure that you maintain good oral hygiene.
Root Causes of Periodontal Disease
When the bacteria found on gums and teeth are not removed with regularity, it can become tartar which can then become plaque. While brushing can remove the bacteria and some tartar buildup, it cannot remove plaque. The only way to remove it is to have a professional dental cleaning performed. Without removing the plaque, it can easily contribute to the start of gum disease.
The first stage is the only stage in which periodontal disease can be stopped and reversed. This stage is known as gingivitis. This stage can cause bleeding of the gums, sensitivity, and pain. Contributing factors can include, hormonal stages noted from puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. Also, those patients who smoke or abuse alcohol can have a higher chance of developing gum disease.
Symptoms
For many patients, they are unaware they have periodontal disease because there is no associated pain to alert them that something is wrong. Some of the easiest to recognize signs are bleeding or swollen gums. In some cases, blood may show up on the toothbrush or when patients spit into the sink.
How to Diagnosis Periodontal Disease
While bleeding or pain may be associated with the development of periodontal disease, the only way to truly diagnose it is to have a professional evaluation done by a dental professional. They will check bone mass loss along the jawline and determine if the gums are indeed pulling away from the roots of the teeth as well.
How To Avoid the Spread of Gum Disease
Apart from the essential need for you to visit a dental clinic like ours on a regular basis, you also need to make sure that you maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing are essential, but it's also important for you to make sure you rinse with water after every meal. People who suffer from gingivitis also need to take medications on a regular basis to ensure the condition is kept under control. If your bacterial infection is bad, then you may want to consider surgical procedures in order to take the infection out and get rid of it. This is the best way to prevent it from spreading and keep your teeth safe. If you want to get a dental exam to ensure that you do not suffer from any gum disease, then you can give us a call at (480) 939-5818 and book an appointment with Timothy H. Kindt, DDS at your earliest convenience.
Gum Disease Treatments
The most disturbing aspect of the latter stages of periodontal disease is that it is incurable. Once it has advanced beyond gingivitis, then the only treatments available simply manage the symptoms and help the progress of the disease slow down. The small pockets which develop along the gum line will be treated. There may be surgical procedures necessary to rebuild gum tissue and bone mass loss. This maintenance is a lifelong commitment. Patients will be required to come in for intense cleanings every three months.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
The best way a patient can prevent gum disease is to brush and floss at least twice a day and to come in and have dental exams and cleanings twice a year. It is important to realize that gum disease can also affect the rest of the body. Serious infections can develop and infect other systems in the body. Come see us today at Timothy H. Kindt, DDS or call us at (480) 939-5818, so we can schedule a gum disease screening for you.
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