Gum disease is a common oral disease that affects most adults and even some children. The disease is so common because the early symptoms are hard to detect and mostly painless. A progressive condition, meaning that if you do not receive professional care, gum disease can get worse and even spread to other teeth or parts of your body. The disease affects your jaw bone, teeth and gum tissue, causing permanent damage to your oral health, including tooth loss! The best way to catch this disease in its earliest stage is through regular dental hygiene appointments and checkups. Our team will always inspect your mouth for signs of gum disease and educate you on the best ways to keep your mouth healthy.
The first stage of the disease, gingivitis, can be easily treated if identified early. If not caught or treated, gingivitis can progress to the incurable periodontitis and advanced periodontitis. During this advanced stage, gum disease can only be maintained with routine periodontal maintenance visits. Treating the disease is important because along with tooth loss, receding gums and deteriorating bone tissue, research has also linked gum disease as contributing to strokes, heart disease and dementia.
of Americans have some form of gum disease
of Americans over age 65 have gum disease
million Americans are missing at least one tooth
Signs And Symptoms Of Gum Disease
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Recurring bad breath even after brushing
- Gum recession revealing tooth roots
- Swollen, red or puffy gums
- Changing bite due to loose or shifting teeth
Effective Preventative Treatments
At the Dental Arts Studio of Cape Cod in Chatham and Orleans, we always examine your mouth for signs of gum disease, and if caught, we have treatment methods to help cleanse your mouth and prevent the disease from worsening. One of the most common treatments offered and a first line of defense against gum disease is scaling and root planing. This treatment involves using extra small tools to access the area below the gum line, removing bacteria, tartar and plaque that has built up around the tooth roots. Once we cleanse the area and smooth out your tooth roots, your gum tissue will be able to reconnect to your teeth and maintain a healthy, protective, and attractive barrier. If you are affected by periodontitis or advanced periodontitis, we offer effective periodontal maintenance treatments that are scheduled every three months. Periodontal maintenance involves scaling and root planing, plus an in-depth cleaning of the teeth and gums. This helps keep gum disease in check and ensure your gums and bones don’t become infected again. With regular appointments, you can keep your mouth clean and healthy for years to come!
Get Evaluated For Gum Disease Today!
