Gum Disease Treatment in Upper Arlington
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a bacterial growth that can be destructive. It is caused by the buildup of plaque on the teeth, and eventually breaks down the tissues and bones surrounding the teeth.
Types of Gum Disease
The two main types of gum disease include gingivitis and periodontitis. If you have noticed swollen gums that bleed easily when you floss, you shouldn’t ignore them, because they are likely indicators of gingivitis.
Gingivitis is an early stage of periodontal disease that can lead to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more aggressive form of gum disease, which decays tissues and wears down bone around the teeth. Periodontitis results in tooth loss, mouth pain, and bone collapse.
The Connection Between Gum Health and Overall Health
The link between gum health and overall well-being is well-established through extensive research. Gum disease, especially periodontitis, has been associated with systemic inflammation, contributing to conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis. Scientific studies consistently show a correlation between gum disease and an increased risk of these health issues.
The oral microbiome, including bacteria in the mouth, also plays a role in systemic health. Oral bacteria associated with gum disease can enter the bloodstream, potentially contributing to diseases in other parts of the body, such as atherosclerosis.
For pregnant individuals, maintaining gum health is crucial, as periodontal disease has been linked to an increased risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.
In summary, prioritizing gum health through regular dental care and effective oral hygiene practices is not only essential for preventing oral health issues but also for promoting overall systemic health and reducing the risk of various chronic diseases. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are fundamental steps in supporting both oral and systemic well-being.
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
If you notice any of the warning signs of periodontal disease, give our Upper Arlington office a call to come in for an assessment.
Symptoms of periodontal disease include:
- Bleeding gums, even if they bleed while brushing or flossing your teeth
- Loose teeth or tooth loss
- Spacing between the teeth
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Gum recession, or gums pulling back from the teeth
- Discharge around the teeth and gums
- Red and puffy gums
- Tenderness in the gums or difficulty chewing
Gum Disease Treatment
We provide effective gum disease treatments so you can protect your smile. Some of the nonsurgical options we offer include:
- Routine Teeth Cleanings | For some patients, gum disease is easily reversible with frequent routine cleanings. This gentle process can remove the tartar and plaque that may be too difficult for you to eliminate at home.
- Deep Cleanings | For more advanced cases of gum disease, a scaling and root planing procedure (a deep cleaning procedure) may be useful. In this procedure, we remove the tartar and plaque from the teeth with a combination of electronic and manual scaling. We also clean the periodontal pockets to prevent the spread of gum disease.
Take Control of Periodontal Disease – Get Gum Disease Treatment in Upper Arlington!
If you’re experiencing tender gums or suspect that you may be suffering from gum disease, call, text, or email our office today. We work with patients all over the Upper Arlington area, including Hilliard and Grandview Heights. The earlier patients address periodontal disease the better!