Gum Disease
You have probably heard the term gum disease, but you may not know exactly what it is.
3-Stages of Gum Disease
There are actually three stages of the disease, gingivitis is the first stage, followed by periodontitis, then advanced periodontal disease. However, if caught in the first stage, it can be treated immediately, before leading to a more serious health issue.
What is Gum Disease
Gum disease is when the gum becomes inflamed, and as the issue progresses, it can also hurt your teeth and the supporting bone. If any plaque remains after brushing or flossing, or you don’t brush or floss regularly, the plaque can build up and turn into tartar. Tartar is a hardened plaque that can only be removed during a dental cleaning. If you skip your dental cleanings, this tarter can lead to gum disease. That’s why brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings are essential in preventing gum disease.
Gum Disease Symptoms
Some of the signs include tender or swollen and red gums, continuous bad breath, a receding gum line, teeth that are loose, gums that bleed easily, and teeth that are more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. If you suspect you have gum disease, it’s important that you see a dentist and catch it as soon as possible.
Gum Disease Prevention
You can take preventative measures to help promote a healthier mouth and stave off gum disease. Make sure you’re brushing twice a day and flossing. Also, be sure to keep up with your regular dental cleanings to remove any plaque that’s left behind and catch any issues early on.
We hope this brief guide, “What is Gum Disease and How Do You Prevent It,” has given you some insight into what gum disease is and the stages, symptoms, and prevention.
If you suspect that you may have gum disease or it may be in its early stages, contact Dr. Paul Feldman at Suburban Essex Dental in West Orange, NJ, to schedule a consultation. It is vital to stop it now, prevent it from getting worse, and taking care of it if you have it.
During this unprecedented time of COVID, we have put in place all of the protocols required by the CDC. We also now have virtual dental appointments. Check it out!
