Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, can cause tooth loss and may increase the risk of serious health problems including heart disease and diabetes. Early gum disease is called gingivitis, while more advanced gum disease is called periodontitis. Understanding its causes and the steps to take for gum disease prevention in Fort Collins CO can help limit your risk.
Causes
Gum disease occurs when plaque isn’t properly removed from the teeth and gums and the gums get irritated. The gums then separate from the teeth and the gaps get filled with bacteria, which worsen the condition and can lead to bone destruction. If not caught in time, the dentist may need to remove teeth, and they’ll need to be replaced with restorations.
Potential Signs
Because gum disease isn’t always painful, some people don’t realize they have it until it gets to the later stages. Watch for gums that are red, tender, swollen or bleeding, or bad breath that doesn’t go away. Loose teeth or your teeth not fitting together like they used to are other signs of gum disease. Some people with gum disease experience pain when chewing or when consuming hot or cold foods or beverages.
Prevention
Go for a cleaning and checkup with the dentist every six months. This will help remove any plaque that’s missed during twice-daily brushing and daily flossing. The dentist will also check for early signs of gum disease and provide tips for Gum Disease Prevention in Fort Collins CO. Brush your gums, and your tongue, as well as your teeth and use mouthwash to catch any leftover food bits missed during brushing and flossing. Following a balanced diet and not using tobacco contribute to gum disease prevention as well.
Treatment
The effects of gum disease can be minimized with proper treatment. This may involve scaling and root planing to remove any food, plaque, or tartar below your gum line or using a laser to remove built-up tartar on the teeth. More severe cases may require bone grafting or gingival flap surgery to close off any pockets between the teeth and gum that would otherwise trap food and tartar.
