Understanding & Arresting Gum Disease
Gum disease is a persistent bacterial infection that surrounds your teeth, and it is a concern frequently addressed by our Columbia, SC dental care office. Unfortunately, this condition is quite common, affecting up to 80 percent of adults, many of whom remain undiagnosed. In its early stages, gum disease causes little discomfort and exhibits few symptoms. However, as it progresses, periodontitis can lead to very serious consequences, including:
- Tooth loss
- Bone loss
- Sinus infections
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy complications
Regular dental appointments are necessary to detect problems in its early stages.
Who is at Risk?
Everyone is potentially at risk, but there are many conditions that can increase your risk:
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Hormone fluctuations, such as during pregnancy
- Stress
- Certain medications
- Bruxism (tooth grinding, often associated with TMJ disorder)
- Diabetes
- HIV and any disease resulting in immunosuppression
- A family history of gum disease
Good oral hygiene reduces your risk, but even with good oral hygiene it is possible to get gum disease.
Treating Gum Disease
In its earliest stages, we may only recommend changes to your oral hygiene routine, such as a different brushing technique or time. We may recommend an additional appointment to check on the progress of your treatment.
If necessary, we may also careful scrape affected tooth surfaces, irrigate gum pockets, and apply local antibiotics.
Surgical Treatments
In advanced cases, we may recommend surgery. This may include: pocket depth reduction (the most common), bone or tissue regeneration, crown lengthening, and/or soft tissue grafts. We may perform the surgery ourselves or recommend you to a qualified periodontist.
To learn what periodontal care and treatment is appropriate for you, please call (803) 781-9090 or contact Smile Columbia Dentistry today for an appointment at our Columbia, South Carolina office today.
