Gum disease is a common disease that can manifest itself in a variety of symptoms. The milder symptoms of this disease can be treated with non-surgical options, but advanced symptoms require surgical treatments. The best way to combat gum disease is through the use of good oral hygiene practices and regular dental exams.

If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease or are just overdue for your latest cleaning, our team at Bruce Gopin, DDS, MS can provide you with great dental care. Our professionals will check you for symptoms of gum disease and get you back on the path to your best smile.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is caused by poor dental hygiene and a lack of professional cleanings. When you eat and drink, the debris from your food combines with the naturally occurring bacteria in your mouth to form plaque. Plaque forms a thin layer on your teeth and gums. Plaque is removed when you brush and floss.

If plaque is left on your teeth for an extended period of time, it will harden into a substance called tartar. Tartar generally accumulates between your teeth and at the base of your teeth. It will also build-up in the pockets between your teeth and gums. These pockets are difficult to clean and will become larger over time due to the tartar.

Tartar cannot be removed from your teeth with regular brushing. Tartar has to be removed by our professionals during a cleaning through the use of metal instruments. The longer tartar is allowed to accumulate, the more severe your symptoms of gum disease will become.

What Are Early Symptoms of Gum Disease?

There are many early symptoms of gum disease. One of the first symptoms that many people experience is overly sensitive gums. This is often accompanied by gums that bleed during brushing and flossing. Your gums can also be inflamed as a result of the infection.

These symptoms are common indicators of gum disease but may be signs of other dental health concerns. Gum disease must be diagnosed by a dental professional during an oral exam. This is done by taking measurements of the pockets between your teeth and gums. If these pockets exceed the normal depth range, then you are likely experiencing gum disease and require treatment.

What Are Advanced Symptoms of Gum Disease?

Advanced symptoms of gum disease begin to occur after a prolonged period. These symptoms include things such as a receding gumline and prolonged periods of infection or inflammation. Advanced symptoms are a sign that your gum disease has progressed too much to be treated with non-surgical methods.

Once you begin experiencing these symptoms, it is important to begin treatment so that you do not experience tooth loss. Gum disease will lead to a loss of bone density in your jawline. This bone loss will cause your teeth to become loose and eventually fall out.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms of gum disease, you must receive prompt treatment. Our team at Bruce Gopin, DDS, MS can provide various surgical and non-surgical treatments for your gum disease and its symptoms. You can reach us by calling our office at 915-213-3455.