Tackle Gum Disease Sooner Than Later

Posted on Nov 26, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

While regular dental check-ups and cleanings are designed to help you maintain a healthy mouth and catch problems at the earliest stage possible, these visits are not structured to treat a mouth that shows signs of gum disease.

Like many diseases that form in our bodies, there are no obvious signs as gum disease is first forming. For example, by the time many women discover a lump in their breast, it is because it has grown to a sizable mass. This is why mammograms are recommended at regular intervals, so a growth can be remedied when treatment requirements are (hopefully) still minimal.

The initial stages of gum disease are silent. Once symptoms emerge, such as gums that bleed when brushing or persistent bad breath, a more intensive form of “cleaning” is required. This can be successfully and comfortably completed by a Periodontal Specialist, who is specifically trained to treat even late-stage periodontal disease.

By seeking this specialized care, you can hopefully avoid tooth loss. Gum disease is the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss, often due to delay in treatment. Once the mouth is restored to good oral health, resuming a committed home care regimen and regular dental cleanings can help keep it that way.

Maintaining good oral health is also necessary to support overall health. The bacteria of gum disease has been linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, preterm babies and impotency. Research has continually shown just how devastating oral bacteria can be once it enters the bloodstream through diseased gum tissue.

Without treatment, gum disease will continue to worsen. The gums become sore and tender and pus pockets form around teeth. Eventually, teeth will loosen and have to be removed. Tooth loss creates an entirely new set of problems.

If you suspect you have gum disease, take proactive measures now by getting periodontal disease effectively treated. Call (828) 274-9440 for an appointment.