Knowing the early stages of gum disease can help prevent it from advancing and becoming more serious. Left untreated, gum disease can cause the gums to recede and teeth to become loose, which can eventually result in tooth loss. Seeking treatment during the early stages of gum disease helps prevent it from spreading and causing more damage. Dr. Robert Bunn, the experienced dentist at Dental-Doctors of Lynchburg in Lynchburg, VA, provides treatment for gum disease to restore the health of your gums.
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, can develop when bacteria infect the gums. Several factors could increase your risk of developing gum disease, such as a poor oral hygiene routine. A poor diet with insufficient nutrients for helping the body fight infections can also increase the likelihood of developing gum disease. Additionally, the risk increases with age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that around 70 percent of individuals age 65 or older have gum disease.
Patients with certain chronic medical conditions at higher risk for gum disease, as well. Conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or rheumatoid arthritis are associated with inflammation in the body, which increases a person’s risk for developing gum disease. A family history of gum disease or early tooth loss also puts you at a higher risk.
Early Signs of Gum Disease
Knowing the early signs or stages of gum disease helps with catching it right away so treatment can begin promptly before the infection has a chance to spread. As gum disease advances and the infection spreads, the bone tissue that supports teeth can become infected and ultimately lead to tooth loss. Early signs of gum disease include:
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- An abscess in the gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum sensitivity
Treatment Methods
We utilize several methods for treating gum disease at our office in Lynchburg. One treatment option that can be used during the early stages of the disease is topical antibiotics or antimicrobial agents. The antibiotic or antimicrobial agent is applied to the gums to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. Scaling and root planing is another effective treatment method that involves deep cleaning below the gum line to remove hardened deposits on the teeth, such as plaque and tartar buildup.
Advanced stages of gum disease that cannot be fully resolved with other methods might require surgical treatment. Periodontal surgery can involve the removal and replacement of diseased gum tissue or the reattachment of the gums to the teeth. A surgical procedure might also be needed to remove an abscess in the gums.
One of the best ways to prevent gum disease from getting worse is to identify it and seek treatment during the early stages of the disease. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Bunn if you have developed signs of gum disease by calling Dental-Doctors of Lynchburg in Lynchburg, VA, at (434) 385-7718.