Pay Bill
Understanding the Risks of Gum Disease
Receding, swollen, tender, and bleeding gums may be symptoms of gingivitis or more advanced periodontal disease and could pose a serious risk to your dental and general health. Among these risks are tooth loss, diabetes, arthritis, heart attacks, and strokes. Highbridge Dental Associates effectively treats gum disease in a comfortable and affordable manner. If you are suffering from any of these conditions, please contact us for prompt treatment.
Common Gum Disease: Gingivitis and Plaque
Gingivitis is a common gum disease primarily caused by plaque, an invisible, sticky biofilm of bacteria and food elements that continually forms in the mouth, covering teeth and gums. If not removed, plaque hardens under the gum line into tartar (calculus), which creates a protective shield for bacteria that can only be removed during a professional dental cleaning.
Good oral hygiene with daily flossing and brushing inhibits plaque buildup and helps prevent gingivitis. However, if gingivitis is not treated, it can progress into more advanced periodontal disease.
Symptoms of Gingivitis
- Reddened, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
- Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath
- An unpleasant taste in your mouth
Advanced Periodontal Disease: Periodontitis
Advanced periodontal disease, or periodontitis, is a severe form of gum, tissue, and bone disease that often arises from untreated gingivitis. It is exacerbated by poor oral hygiene, poor nutrition, tobacco and substance use, diabetes, certain diseases, infections, medications, dry mouth, and ill-fitting dentures.
While periodontitis is not curable, it can be controlled with proper treatment. If left untreated, periodontitis can result in extensive gum infection, tooth loss, jawbone deterioration, and an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, lung disease, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, dementia, and premature birth.
Symptoms of Advanced Periodontal Disease
- Reddened, receding, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
- Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
- Gums that detach from the teeth, creating pockets
- An unpleasant taste in your mouth
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Extreme tooth sensitivity caused by exposed dentin
- Pain when chewing
Treatment for Gum Disease
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important that you seek prompt treatment. Highbridge Dental Associates will address your symptoms with a thorough examination and therapeutic professional cleaning. We may also offer additional treatments, such as TLC Arestin Treatment and a Soft Tissue Management (STM) program, to restore your oral health and manage gum disease effectively.
Gum disease can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease, Highbridge Dental Associates is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward better oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can gum disease be reversed?
Gingivitis can be reversed with proper care and good oral hygiene. However, periodontitis can be managed but not fully reversed.
Is gum disease contagious?
While the bacteria that cause gum disease can spread through saliva, the disease itself is not contagious. Good oral hygiene is the best prevention.
How often should I get a professional dental cleaning?
It’s recommended to have a dental cleaning every six months, or more frequently if you are at risk for gum disease.
What happens if gum disease is left untreated?
Untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss, severe gum infections, and an increased risk of other serious health conditions.
Can smoking affect gum disease?
Yes, smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease. It weakens the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infection.
New Patients & Emergency Appointments Welcome