Why Should I Treat My Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal or gum disease is when bacteria in the mouth forms plaque on the teeth. It is this bacteria that can cause redness, inflammation, bleeding, swollen or painful gums.

“But not everyone experiences the pain that is associated with Periodontal Disease, for some by the time they notice something is not right, they are well on their way to losing teeth,” says Dr. Denine Rice from her Periodontal Practice in Riverside, California.

Early stages of the disease can be reversed and healed with proper oral hygiene, but when the disease has progressed you will need professional help to maintain and control. Around each tooth is a pocket, in a healthy mouth – one where brushing and flossing occurs on a daily basis – the pocket can be kept clean and healthy by keeping regular visits to your dentist in combination with continued homecare. When the pockets around the teeth exceed the normal limit though, brushing and flossing just can’t reach the bacteria. “And the bacteria must be disturbed and removed to prevent the disease from becoming more aggressive,” adds Dr. Rice.

 Why?

Left untreated periodontal disease can:

1.     Cause your gums to be inflamed, tender and/or red.

2.     Cause your gums to bleed and be swollen.

3.     Cause your teeth to shift and become loose.

4.     Cause a change to the way your teeth fit together when biting.

5.     Cause persistent bad breath.

6.     Cause your gum tissue to recede from your teeth.

If you are experiencing any of the signs of Periodontal Disease, don’t delay, call today and be evaluated.