If you’ve spent any time at all in the dental office, you know that gum disease can wreak havoc on your oral health. In fact, it is the leading cause of tooth loss. At Metropolitan Dental Care, we offer a wide range of treatments in periodontal care, including deep cleanings, gum surgery, and more. But treating gum disease early can help prevent more serious problems from developing in the future. If you suspect you have gum disease in Denver, consider scheduling an appointment with Dr. Mike Norouzinia, our on-staff periodontist. He can recommend a customized treatment plan to help you achieve and maintain a healthy smile.
What Causes Gum Disease?
In simple terms, gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth. If plaque and tartar are not removed on a regular basis, bacteria begin to populate. As a result, the gum tissue becomes irritated. In fact, gum disease is really just the body’s natural immune defense against irritants on the teeth.
It is important to note, however, that some individuals are genetically predisposed to periodontal disease. These patients may require more frequent dental cleanings to keep harmful bacteria at bay.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease progresses through three stages. These include:
- Gingivitis: The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis causes red, inflamed, tender gums. At this point, the underlying bone has not been affected, as the bacteria is still above the gum line.
- Periodontitis: If left untreated, gingivitis will progress into periodontitis. At this point, the infection has seeped beneath the gums and begins to erode the supporting jawbone.
- Advanced periodontitis: If periodontitis is not address, it will worsen. As the jawbone continues to erode, the teeth may become loose and eventually fall out.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
The symptoms of gum disease can vary for each patient. Some of the most common warning signs include:
- Red gums: Healthy gums should be pink, not red. If the gums become darker, it could indicate gingivitis or periodontitis.
- Sore or tender gums: If your gums are tender (and you do not remember sustaining any trauma to the tissue), you could have gum disease.
- Bad breath: Occasional bad breath is typical after eating certain foods. However, if you have persistent bad breath, it could signify periodontal disease or an oral infection.
- Mobility: As the supporting bone erodes over time, the pockets around the teeth become deeper. As a result, the teeth may become more mobile and the teeth may shift.
- Tooth loss: If periodontal disease is let untreated for a prolonged period of time, tooth loss will eventually occur.
In some cases, patients may not have any recognizable symptoms, especially if they are still in the early stage of gingivitis. That is why routine dental visits are so important – your doctor can assess your oral health and detect any potential issues right away.
Learn More about Gum Disease in Denver
Are you noticing signs and symptoms of gum disease in Denver? If so, schedule a consultation with your Denver dentist today. Our team at Metropolitan Dental Care can design a personalized plan to eliminate infection and restore your oral health. Even if you have advanced periodontal disease, we can recommend treatments to get you back on track. We are proud to serve Denver, Lone Tree, Centennial, Highlands Ranch, and Parker. Contact us online or call our office at 303-534-2626.
