The older you get, the more likely you will face gum disease. By the time adults reach age 70, they have about a 75 percent chance of having gum disease. Gum disease begins as a mild issue, but if you leave it untreated, it can lead to massive infection and inflammation. If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, you need information about treatments for gum disease, so keep reading.
The Three Stages of Gum Disease
Periodontal disease has three stages. The first stage of the disease is called gingivitis. If you have gingivitis in the early stage, your gums can become red, irritated, and swollen. Sometimes, your gums can bleed as well when you brush or floss your teeth. Our dentist can give you suggestions on how to treat and cure your stage one periodontal disease.
Periodontitis represents stage two and stage three of gum disease, and a dentist will not be able to cure your gums completely, though they can treat you. In these two stages, your gums will begin to shrink as spaces develop between your teeth and gumline. These pockets (spaces) can fill with bits of bacteria, food, and infection, which can cause widespread irritation and infection throughout your body.
Treatments
If you have gingivitis, your first step is to make sure you are brushing your teeth and flossing after every meal or snack to keep your teeth as clean as possible. You can also use a toothpaste that fights gum disease or an electric toothbrush that specializes in gum cleaning.
People who have stage two or three of gum disease need more intensive treatment. They need deep gum cleanings three or four times a year to keep gum disease in remission. During this treatment, dentists use tools to clean underneath your gums between your teeth and gums.
If you have stage three gum disease, you may need more intensive surgical treatments to restore bone, gum tissue, and teeth. Not sure if your red, bleeding gums are a sign of gum disease? Reach out to us today for an appointment.
The older you get, the more likely you will face gum disease. By the time adults reach age 70, they have about a 75 percent chance of having gum disease. Gum disease begins as a mild issue, but if you leave it untreated, it can lead to massive infection and inflammation. If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, you need information about treatments for gum disease, so keep reading.