What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is a problem that can lead to bad breath and bleeding gums. If left untreated, this condition can cause bone loss of the jaw and even loss of permanent teeth. It doesn’t have to get that bad, however. Taking care of your teeth, seeing thedentist in St. Cloud, MN on a regular basis, and taking steps to eliminate gum disease can help you achieve a healthy mouth again.

In this article, we’ll go over the basic information about periodontal disease that everyone should know.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a condition that occurs when an infection in the gums damages the tissues around the teeth. Periodontal disease often happens when a person has poor oral hygiene habits, but some people are at higher risk than others. If you have dry mouth, diabetes, or if you smoke, you may be more prone to experiencing periodontal disease than others.

Periodontal disease starts off as gingivitis, which is an early stage of gum disease. At this stage, the problem can be reversed with regular visits to the dentist and maintaining consistent oral hygiene at home. However, if gingivitis is not properly managed, it can easily become worse.

What Are the Signs of Periodontal Disease?

Knowing the signs that you have gum disease is important. If you notice the symptoms of gum disease, it’s important to visit the dentist to get treatment. Signs of periodontal disease include:

• Gums are swollen and puffy
• Gums bleed easily
• Gums are deep red or purplish in color
• Gums recede from the teeth, making the teeth look longer
• Gums are tender when touched, chewing is painful
• Breath is bad and this isn’t improved with brushing your teeth
• Teeth feel different when you bite down
• Permanent teeth are loose or have fallen out

What Can You Do About Periodontal Disease?

If you have periodontal disease, your dentist may use a variety of tactics to help you overcome the problem. Antibiotics may be prescribed to control the infection, and your dentist may perform a “deep clean” of your teeth. This involves cleaning below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar. Your dentist may also smooth your teeth below the gum line to prevent bacteria from attaching to your teeth again.

Need treatment for periodontal disease or adental exam in St. Cloud, MN? Call your dentist at Friesz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today.