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Periodontal or Gum Disease
Q:
What is periodontal or gum disease?
Q:
What causes gum disease?
Q: Does it hurt? Wouldn't I know if I had it? A:
Most forms of gum disease are painless. In its early stages,
symptoms often go unnoticed until the condition becomes advanced. Just
as high blood pressure is called the silent killer, so is gum disease
the silent killer of teeth. We've learned a great deal about gum
disease in recent years. We are now able to diagnose it earlier
and help patients get it under control much better than in the past.
The earlier we detect it the sooner we can get it under control.
If your gums are bleeding, even slightly, it is a sign of gum
disease. When patients wait until teeth are loose and painful
and their gums are oozing it is much more difficult and costly, if at
all possible, to get the disease under control. You should watch
for gums that bleed when brushing; red, swollen or tender gums; and/or
persistent bad breath. A: Early gum disease is treated with a procedure known as scaling and root planning. The dentist or dental hygienist uses thin curettes and gently removes the plaque and tartar under the gum-line. Some patients may prefer local anesthesia to numb the area prior to treatment. Moderate and advanced gum disease is usually first treated with scaling and root planning. After the gums heal, Gum surgery may be indicated. Patients may experience discomfort for up to one week after surgery. Pain medication is generally prescribed after surgery.
Q: Will my teeth feel sensitive after treatment? A: Sometimes the teeth are sensitive for several months after treatment. This is because the treatment leaves a portion of the roots exposed. Your dentist can treat this sensitivity with fluoride or other in-office desensitizers, and the patient can use toothpaste designed to help soothe the sensitive areas.
Q: Am I at risk for gum disease? A: Risk factors include smoking, systemic illnesses such as diabetes or AIDS, medications that affect the immune system, pregnancy, and inadequate oral hygiene.
Q:
How can gum disease be prevented?
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Ralston Dental Health Center |
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