My dentist is telling me that I have a gum disease. What is a gum disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It typically begins with the inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and, if left untreated, can progress to more severe forms of periodontal disease.

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Gum disease is caused by the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and along the gumline. When plaque is not effectively removed through proper oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar (calculus), which can only be removed by a dental professional.

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The bacteria in plaque and tartar produce toxins that irritate the gums, leading to inflammation and bleeding. In its early stages, gum disease may cause symptoms such as redness, swelling, and tenderness of the gums. However, as the disease progresses, it can cause more serious symptoms and complications, including:

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1. **Gum recession**: The gums may pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can accumulate and cause further damage.

2. **Bone loss**: Untreated gum disease can lead to the destruction of the bone that supports the teeth, eventually resulting in tooth loss.

3. **Tooth mobility**: As the supporting structures of the teeth weaken, the teeth may become loose or shift position.

4. **Persistent bad breath**: The bacteria involved in gum disease can produce foul-smelling gases, leading to chronic bad breath (halitosis).

5. **Systemic health effects**: Research suggests that gum disease may be linked to an increased risk of certain systemic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

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Preventing gum disease involves maintaining good oral hygiene practices, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups. Early detection and treatment of gum disease are crucial for preventing its progression and minimizing the risk of complications. If you suspect you have gum disease or are experiencing symptoms such as bleeding gums or persistent bad breath, it's essential to consult with a dentist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

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Here at Dear Dental, we can treat gum disease using a variety of methods, depending on the severity of the condition. Here are some common treatments for gum disease:

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1. **Professional Dental Cleaning**: In the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis), a professional dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, may be sufficient to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gums. This procedure involves using specialized instruments to clean above and below the gumline and smooth the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from adhering to them.

2. **Antibacterial Therapy**: Dentists may prescribe antimicrobial mouth rinses or gels to help reduce the bacterial load in the mouth and promote healing of the gums.

3. **Pocket Reduction Surgery**: In cases of advanced gum disease (periodontitis) where deep pockets have formed between the gums and teeth, surgical intervention may be necessary to reduce pocket depth and remove bacteria. This procedure, known as pocket reduction or flap surgery, involves lifting the gums to access and clean the tooth roots and then repositioning the gums to reduce pocket depth.

4. **Bone Grafting**: In severe cases of gum disease where bone loss has occurred around the teeth, dentists may recommend bone grafting to restore lost bone tissue and provide support for the teeth.

5. **Gum Grafting**: If gum recession has occurred as a result of gum disease, dentists may perform gum grafting surgery to cover exposed tooth roots and protect them from further damage.

6. **Laser Therapy**: Some dentists use laser technology to remove diseased tissue and bacteria from the gums while promoting the regeneration of healthy gum tissue.

7. **Ongoing Maintenance**: Following treatment for gum disease, it's essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices at home, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using antimicrobial mouth rinses as prescribed. Regular visits to the dentist for professional cleanings and check-ups are also crucial for monitoring the health of your gums and preventing the recurrence of gum disease.

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The specific treatment approach will depend on the individual's oral health status, the severity of the gum disease, and other factors. It's essential to consult with a dentist or periodontist for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Early detection and treatment of gum disease can help prevent further damage to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth and preserve your oral health.

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