Gum disease affects a large number of American’s, but it is surprisingly easy to ignore its signs. Since many people often focus their attention on issues with their teeth and since gum disease is often painless, the signs of gum disease in Spanaway, WA are often ignored until they’re very severe.
Unfortunately, while it is easy to disregard the symptoms of gum disease, its consequences are not; indeed, gum disease is one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss. Fortunately, paying attention to the early symptoms of gum disease can allow patients to deal with the issue before it leads to more serious effects.
Gum Disease Symptoms
Maintaining a regular tooth brushing regimen in conjunction with frequent flossing is both the best way to prevent gum disease and a chance to detect symptoms of gum disease before they become severe. Here are the six signs of gum disease in Spanaway, WA.
1. Pain
While typically pain does not develop until gum disease has increased in severity, any pain in a person’s gums should not be ignored. For many people, the first symptom of gum disease they notice is tenderness or discomfort in their gums or teeth.
2. Swollen Gums
While safe, disease-free gums look solid and pink in color, gums that have gum disease can swell, turning red or purple in color.
3. Bad Taste In The Mouth
For those that have a persistent bad taste in their mouth that won’t go away, no matter how much mouthwash they use, it could be a symptom of gum disease.
4. Persistent Bad Breath
Bad breath that doesn’t go away with daily tooth brushing or flossing can be a symptom of gum disease.
5. Bleeding Gums
Normally, healthy gums don’t bleed from daily tooth brushing or flossing. If a person’s gums bleed during their usual oral hygiene routine, they may have developed gum disease.
6. Loose Teeth Or Spaces That Grow Between Teeth
When a person has loose teeth or notices spaces growing between their teeth, this is a more severe sign that they have gum disease.
As a person’s gums decay due to the effects of gum disease, spaces between their teeth can grow and their teeth may feel loose. This may cause pockets to grow which can lead to bacteria building up in their mouth.
Gum Disease Treatment Options
If left untreated, gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can result in systemic issues –such as diabetes, stroke, or even cardiovascular disease. This can lead to permanent, long-term issues that can become difficult to address. There are several gum disease treatment options in Spanaway, WA. Traditional gum disease treatment options can include:
Scaling And Root Planning (SRP):
Scaling and root planning is a non-surgical procedure that treats gum disease. A trusted doctor can remove plaque, bacteria, and tartar that may be found beneath the gum line or in gum tissue “pockets”. By cleaning the gums and roots, a smoother surface results and encourages gum tissue growth and reattachment (for receding gums) and gum pocket reduction to improve gum and oral health.
Osseous Surgery:
Osseous surgery is for patients who are in the advanced stages of gum disease. This procedure is a great option that can be used to treat infection caused by bacteria that has traveled deeper into the gum tissue. Osseous surgery can prevent bacteria from moving into the bloodstream. The infected area and bone are cleaned and reshaped, promoting gum tissue healing in a more uniform way.
Periodontal Maintenance:
Periodontal maintenance is performed after a patient’s gum disease treatment, ensuring that their gum disease does not return.
You Should Get Treated For Gum Disease At Our Office
If you are exhibiting any of the above gum disease symptoms, you should come to our office. Contact Dr. Kwansoo Lee and our team of dental professionals at our Pacific NW Dental Center office to schedule an appointment today! You can get a consultation from Dr. Lee to determine the best options to treat your gum disease!
Dr. Kwansoo Lee and our talented team of dental professionals can treat your gum disease in a compassionate and modern environment, giving you state-of-the-art care for effective results.
