Are your gums red, sore, or bleeding? If so, you may be developing periodontal disease. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease and can be reversed, but once you develop full-blown periodontitis (the severest stage of periodontal disease) there is no reversing it. Periodontal disease, also referred to as gum disease, is the major reason for tooth loss in adults, and if it goes untreated, you may end up needing dental implants.
Periodontal Disease
If your gums are sore, deep red, and bleed occasionally, you may think it is nothing, but it is something you should not ignore. You may be developing gingivitis, the earliest stage of periodontal disease. Gingivitis can be treated with a deep cleaning called a scaling and root planing, but if you don’t take care of it now, it can lead to periodontal disease and eventual tooth loss. If that happens, you may end up needing implants. So, if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, don’t wait. See your dentist ASAP!
- Red, swollen, bleeding gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Periodontal pockets
- Receding gums
- Root exposure
- Loose teeth
- Tooth loss
How to Avoid Periodontal Disease
Proper oral hygiene can help you avoid gingivitis and the eventual development of periodontal disease. Be attentive to your oral health by brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash. As fastidious as you may be about your oral hygiene at home, however, it is still detrimental that you visit your dentist for your biannual checkups and cleanings.
Although periodontal disease is the major reason for tooth loss, it is not the only reason for tooth loss, and if you have experienced the loss of a tooth, you may want to ask your dentist about dental implants.