Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is very common and it’s a condition where gums become sore, infected and swollen. It’s projected that more than 50% of all adults (in some varying degree) experience this issue at least once during their lifetime. However, dentists find that it is less common in children. Gum treatment in Louisville KY is important. If you or someone you know is experiencing the above symptoms, you should seek dental help.
If gum disease is present, you may notice bleeding when brushing and bad breath may also be present. This stage of the disease is called gingivitis. And if it isn’t treated, periodontitis may develop. This issue will affect tissues which hold teeth in place. It is estimated that one out of every six adults have severe periodontitis, and many more are affected with a less severity of it.
What causes periodontal disease?
A constant build-up of plaque on your teeth is what causes gum disease. Plaque is known as a sticky bacteria-based substance, which forms on the teeth when eating and drinking.
Various bacteria in plaque may be harmless, but then there are some that are harmful to your oral health. By not removing the plaque from teeth by brushing and flossing, a build-up will occur over time. This will irritate the gums, and lead to swelling, soreness and redness.
Seeing the dentist
If you notice that your gums begin bleeding, or start to swell when brushing, schedule a Gum treatment at Springhurst Family and Cosmetic Dentistry of Louisville KY as soon as possible.
Your dentist will perform a thorough dental exam and check your gum health, which involves inserting a periodontal probe beside your teeth. They may take some X-rays as well. This will check the overall conditioning of the teeth and jaw.
Prevention and treatment
Mild cases can be treated through good daily oral hygiene. Brushing twice daily and flossing regularly is a great start to prevent periodontitis. However, make sure to schedule regular dental check-ups too.
Dental providers, like Springhurst Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, will thoroughly clean and remove hardened plaque (tartar) during your visits. They also show you the proper ways to effectively clean your teeth. This helps prevent the build-up of plaque in the future.
For more information on Gum treatment in Louisville KY, contact your local dentist today.
