How can you tell if you have gum disease? You can get informed and look out for symptoms! Furthermore, you can see your Naples dentist for a final verdict. Gum disease, otherwise known as periodontal disease, is a type of bacterial infection in your gum tissues. The infection can range from mild (gingivitis) to severe (periodontitis).
The two best ways to prevent gum disease is to religiously follow an oral care routine and to visit your dentist for regular professional teeth cleaning. Individuals who have skimped on their oral health are ten times more prone to develop gum disease compared to those who practice proper oral hygiene.
What is Gum Disease?
Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis
Do you have gingivitis or periodontitis? Only your Naples dentist can tell what type of gum disease you have. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that’s caused by an excessive buildup of plaque on your teeth. The plaque will irritate and inflame your gums, leading to bleeding, swollen, painful, and red gums that usually manifest when you’re brushing your teeth.
Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease where the gums start receding and pulling away from your teeth creating gum pockets where bacteria can thrive, hide, and multiply. If not controlled, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.
Causes of Gum Disease
During your visit to your Naples dentist, they will ask about your dental health history. This will give your dentist an idea of what caused the infection. Some of the risk factors of gum disease include smoking, genetics, hormones, medical conditions like diabetes, and even patients who have AIDS and cancer. Stress is also a contributing factor because when you are under stress it will compromise your body’s ability to fight off infections including periodontal disease. Family history and other medications can also predispose you to periodontal disease.
Gum disease is an inflammatory condition, it worsens with time and more neglect. As we get older, gingivitis is more likely to manifest as periodontitis and will lead to bone loss and possible tooth loss. The most important thing you can do to prevent the advancement of gum disease is proper oral hygiene. Healthy gums and teeth do not bleed with flossing or brushing.
Do You Need To See A Naples Dentist?
Brushing, flossing, quitting smoking, and regularly seeing a dentist will not only keep cavities away but these practices will also preserve and maintain gum health. To keep your oral health in great shape, we recommend you visit your dentist.
At Gulfside Dental, we strive to give you the best possible dental care at a super affordable price. We take pride in our state-of-the-art facility and our team of skilled and trained dental professionals. Call us today or explore our website to learn more about our services!