Don't Ignore These Signs Of Periodontal Disease

What your dentist in Newberg wants you to knowgum disease

Periodontal disease usually takes several years to become serious, but there are some warning signs along the way. Dr. Angela Toy at Arbor Hills Dental in Newberg, OR, wants to share why you shouldn’t ignore the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease.

Before you have periodontal disease, you have gum disease, a condition that affects just your soft tissue. You may not feel any pain, but you may notice slight bleeding when you brush or floss. Early signs and symptoms of gum disease include:

  • Red, swollen gums
  • Painful gums
  • Gums that bleed when you brush or floss

The good news is gum disease is a totally reversible condition. You can bring your gums back to a healthy state with regular brushing and flossing. That’s because gum disease is caused by the toxins and bacteria in dental plaque. If you regularly remove plaque, the bacteria and toxins don’t have a chance to infect your gums. You should also visit your dentist at least once each year, and have a professional cleaning at least once every six months.

If you don’t practice excellent oral hygiene, your gum disease can progress to periodontal disease during which the bone supporting your teeth becomes infected and diseased. Like gum disease, there are several signs and symptoms of periodontal disease. In addition to gum disease symptoms, you should also look for:

  • Gums that are receding
  • Exposed tooth roots
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Loose teeth
  • Teeth that have moved out of position

If you have periodontal disease, you will need more aggressive treatment to control the disease. Treatment begins with a thorough dental examination and x-rays of the roots of your teeth. Measurements of bone levels are taken and your dentist will formulate a plan to treat your disease.

Periodontal therapy usually includes a thorough deep cleaning, called root planing, which is often performed with anesthetic. During root planing, plaque and tartar deposits are removed. The goal of root planing is to establish a healthy tissue-to-tooth attachment. After the initial root planing treatments, periodontal cleanings are recommended at frequent intervals, usually every three to four months.

Don’t ignore the signs and symptoms of gum and periodontal disease. Seek out the help of an expert. Call Dr. Toy at Arbor Hills Dental in Newberg, OR. Don’t let gum and periodontal disease take over your smile, call today!

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