Gum Disease Signs

The treatment for any form of gum disease involves regular dental visits, brushing, and a flossing regimen. Gingivitis is the medical term for early gum disease or periodontal disease. 

Gum disease originates in the gums, where infections form from harmful bacteria and other materials left behind from food. Early warning signs include chronic bad breath, tender or painful swollen gums, and minor bleeding after brushing or flossing. 

Gingivitis can also go unnoticed. The infections can eventually cause the gums to separate from the teeth. This creates even greater opportunities for infection and decay. Although gum disease is the major cause of tooth loss in many adults, in a lot of cases, it is avoidable.

If gingivitis goes untreated, more serious problems such as abscesses, bone loss, or periodontitis can occur.

Periodontitis can be treated in a number of ways. One method, called root planing, involves cleaning and scraping below the gum line to smooth out the roots. If this is shown to be effective, the gums will reattach themselves to the tooth structure. 

However, not all instances of scaling and root planing successfully reattach the teeth to the gums. Additional measures may be needed if the periodontal pockets persist after scaling and root planing prove ineffective.

Pregnancy has also been known to cause a form of gingivitis. This has been linked to hormonal changes in the woman's body that enhance plaque production. Call Weatherford Dental Care today to learn more.