Are you noticing blood in the sink after brushing your teeth? Do you suffer from bad breath that you can't seem to get rid of? Do your gums look red or irritated? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might be suffering from gingivitis or the first stage of gum disease.
Periodontal (gum) disease can be defined as an infection of the primary support system for your teeth, which is your gums and jawbone. Gum disease can be slow moving at first and tricky to diagnose on your own since there's not much pain in the beginning. Bleeding and swollen gums are one of the early telltale signs of gum disease, and if you notice these symptoms, it's a good idea to contact your dentist right away for an examination.
You can often effectively manage gingivitis with a professional cleaning with your hygienist and some improvements to your home care routine. For many patients, this treatment may be enough to reverse their condition.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for gum disease. So, if it progresses to the advanced stage (periodontitis), it will require a more in-depth cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line. Patients who are managing gum disease may also need additional cleanings with their hygienist throughout the year to keep their condition at bay.
If gum disease is left untreated, it eventually destroys the soft tissues and bone that support your teeth and results in tooth loss. For this reason, it is important not to ignore the symptoms and be proactive about your oral health.
Consistently visiting Dr. King every six months for routine cleaning and checkups will help you avoid periodontal disease in Huntsville, AL. Contact our office today to schedule your next appointment.
Related Services: Periodontal Disease
