Periodontal disease
Periodontal disease
Gum disease, most commonly known as gingivitis, can advance to periodontal disease (periodontitis) if left untreated
Periodontal disease becomes more common as you get older. The good news is, your dentist can help you strengthen your gums
with simple treatments, like periodontal cleaning. Contact your local Aspen Dental to learn more.
What is periodontal disease (periodontitis)?
How to identify and proactively treat periodontal disease
Periodontal disease is a progressive bacterial infection that targets the gums, ligaments and bone supporting the teeth. It typically develops due to lacking oral hygiene, allowing harmful bacteria to accumulate in plaque and tartar. It creates a film over the teeth called plaque, and can make gums red, swollen and tender. If you don't receive dental cleanings regularly, the plaque hardens into tartar that can only be removed professionally using specialized instruments.
Thankfully, the early stage of gum disease, also called gingivitis, is reversible. To prevent gum disease from
settling into a permanent case of periodontal disease, it’s important to regularly visit your local Aspen Dental
dentist to keep your smile healthy and clean.
The stages of gum disease
Your gums, jaw and periodontal ligament hold your teeth together firmly, and there is little-to-no buildup of plaque or tartar.
Bacteria from plaque can irritate your gums, causing them to become red, sensitive and prone to bleeding. Plaque needs to be cleaned to prevent tartar formation, and to stop gum disease from becoming a permanent condition.
As plaque and tartar continue to build up along the gum line, the gum and bone recede in response. This bone loss is not reversible, but it can be stopped before it worsens.
The bone and tissue damage has progressed so that it can no longer hold the teeth properly in place. Teeth can become loose, fall out or need to be removed professionally.
Periodontal disease symptoms
The more advanced stage of gum disease, periodontal disease, is not reversible and can lead to tooth loss. It’s important to get immediate dental support to recover the health of your teeth and gums.
The good news is, your Sri Ganapathi Eye & Dental Hospital can design a care plan to restore your oral health.