Gum disease occurs when the tissues surrounding the teeth become inflamed or infected, potentially leading to tooth loss when left untreated.
At Washington Dental, we are committed to early diagnosis, precise care, and long-term support for patients in Carson, CA. Our team of experienced general dentists provides customized treatment options to restore gum health and protect your smile.
An Overview Of Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a progressive condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It often begins with plaque buildup along the teeth and gumline. When plaque is not removed through daily brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. This allows bacteria to thrive, causing inflammation that can advance from mild irritation to severe infection and tissue damage.
Causes & Risk Factors Of Gum Disease
Several factors can contribute to the development of gum disease:
- Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing or flossing allows plaque and tartar to accumulate.
- Bacterial infection: Untreated plaque leads to bacteria that inflame and infect gum tissue.
- Smoking and tobacco use: Tobacco weakens the immune system, reduces blood flow, and slows healing.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, puberty, and menopause can increase gum sensitivity.
- Diabetes: Poorly controlled blood sugar raises infection risk.
- Genetic predisposition: Some individuals are naturally more prone to gum disease.
- Medications: Certain medicines affect saliva flow and alter oral bacteria.
- Systemic diseases: Heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis can increase gum inflammation.
- Poor nutrition: Vitamin deficiencies limit immune response and tissue healing.
- Teeth misalignment and restorations: Hard-to-clean areas increase plaque retention.
Signs & Symptoms Of Gum Disease
Gum disease may present with several warning signs:
- Redness and swelling: Inflamed gums appear irritated and tender.
- Bleeding gums: Blood during brushing or flossing indicates irritation.
- Gum recession: Gums pulling away cause teeth to look longer and expose roots.
- Continuous bad breath: Persistent odor can be caused by bacteria and decaying tissue.
- Gum sensitivity: Gums may react strongly to pressure or temperature.
- Shifting or loose teeth: Infection weakens the bone supporting the teeth.
- Changes in bite: Misalignment may worsen as gums and bone deteriorate.
- Pus formation: Pockets of pus indicate active infection that requires prompt care.
How Gum Disease Is Diagnosed
Gum disease diagnosis includes:
- Visual examination: Your dentist checks for swelling, bleeding, and plaque buildup.
- Probing and measuring pocket depth: Deeper pockets indicate disease progression.
- X-rays: Imaging reveals bone loss related to advanced gum disease.
- Gum tissue examination: A biopsy may be used in complicated cases.
- Dental history review: Symptoms and medical background help clarify severity.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options For Gum Disease
Early-stage gum disease may be treated with conservative approaches:
- Professional dental cleaning: Scaling and root planing remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
- Antibacterial mouthwash: Prescription rinses help control bacteria and inflammation.
- Antibiotic therapy: Medications eliminate infection in deeper pockets.
- Lifestyle changes: Improving diet and stopping tobacco use support healing.
Surgical Solutions For Advanced Gum Disease
When gum disease becomes more severe, surgical treatment may be necessary:
- Flap surgery: Lifting gum tissue allows deep cleaning and bone reshaping.
- Soft tissue grafts: Receded gums are restored with healthy donor tissue.
- Bone grafting: Lost bone is regenerated to stabilize the teeth.
- Guided tissue regeneration: A membrane encourages proper bone regrowth.
- Bone surgery: Reshaping uneven bone improves gum attachment.
- Dental implants: Replacement teeth may be needed when disease causes tooth loss.
Importance Of Early Detection & Treatment
Early intervention helps:
- Prevent progression: Untreated gingivitis can become severe periodontitis.
- Minimize damage: Timely care reduces bone and tissue destruction.
- Improve outcomes: Early non-surgical treatments are more effective.
- Preserve teeth: Maintaining natural teeth supports proper chewing and speech.
Maintenance & Follow-Up Care For Gum Disease
Ongoing care protects long-term gum health:
- Oral hygiene practices: Daily brushing and interdental cleaning are critical.
- Regular dental check-ups: Routine visits allow early detection of changes.
- Professional dental cleanings: Periodic cleanings remove buildup missed at home.
- Periodontal maintenance: Patients with gum disease benefit from more frequent cleanings.
- Lifestyle modifications: Quitting tobacco and improving nutrition support gum health.
Preventive Measures To Protect Your Gums
Prevention begins at home:
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Clean along the gumline and between teeth daily.
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash: Reduce bacteria and inflammation.
- Adopt a balanced diet: Choose foods that support healthy gums.
- Avoid tobacco use: Protect immune response and healing ability.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Professional monitoring ensures early detection.
- Manage stress: Stress reduction supports immune function.
- Protect teeth from injury: Wear a mouthguard during sports.
- Be aware of medication effects: Some medications affect gum health.
Complications Of Untreated Gum Disease
Without treatment, gum disease may lead to:
- Tooth loss: Damage to gum tissue and bone destabilizes teeth.
- Gum recession: Exposed roots increase sensitivity and decay risk.
- Bone loss: Jawbone deterioration weakens oral support.
- Abscesses: Pus pockets cause pain and further infection.
- Tooth misalignment: Shifting teeth can change bite and chewing ability.
- Oral infections: Bacteria entering the bloodstream may increase infection risk.
Find A Periodontist Near Me
If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, timely treatment can protect your oral health and prevent long-term complications. At Washington Dental, we provide thorough evaluations, clear treatment plans, and ongoing support for patients in Carson, CA. We welcome you to contact us to schedule a comprehensive gum health assessment and begin restoring your smile.