Gum disease is one of the most common dental health problems today. Left unchecked, this disease can lead to serious dental and general health problems. Even if your oral health seems good, it’s crucial to know the signs before there are serious consequences to your gums, teeth and overall health.
Why Does it Matter?
Your Health is at Stake
Gum disease can be downright devastating to your dental health, resulting in pain, discomfort, and eventually tooth loss. But beyond that, it has been linked to a number of different conditions and chronic diseases, including heart disease, dementia, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and premature birth. It is thought that the bacteria and inflammation, over time, cause problems throughout the body.
Earlier Treatment Leads to Better Outcomes
Gum disease has three stages: gingivitis, early periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. During its initial stage, gum disease is usually reversible with regular professional cleanings and daily brushing and flossing. The prognosis is good when gum disease is caught early, and your gums can be returned to a normal, healthy state.
When permitted to advance to the subsequent stages, though, more intervention is necessary, and the condition is usually not reversible. Early periodontitis and advanced periodontitis usually require care that extends beyond things you can do at home. Typically, this involves reducing the size of pockets that develop between the gums and teeth. In the most extreme cases, bone grafts may be needed to prevent tooth loss.
What Are the Signs?
It’s important to know the signs of gum disease and seek treatment promptly. A major challenge of detecting gum disease early are the seemingly unalarming symptoms early on. Often the only sign of gum disease in its early stages is bleeding gums during brushing and flossing. This may or may not be accompanied by tenderness or continuous bad breath. As the disease advances and as the gums deteriorate, bleeding may subside with no further symptoms until the teeth begin to loosen.
I Think I Might Have Gum Disease, What’s Next?
If you suspect you may have gum disease—whether in its beginning or later stages—contact Dr. Hanasab’s office in North Hollywood or Van Nuys for a consultation. Our experienced staff can help you get on the right track with your dental health. Whether your gum disease is in the early stages or has progressed beyond that, we can help you achieve a bright and healthy smile for years to come.
