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As the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, periodontal disease, otherwise known as gum disease, is an inflammatory condition that happens when toxins in plaque begin to deteriorate bone and gum tissue in the mouth. The disease can affect tissues surrounding the tooth, and even the jawbone itself. Unfortunately, periodontal disease isn’t always blatantly apparent until the pain or irritation becomes extremely noticeable, and in turn calls for immediate action.

Read below to learn more about the common causes of gum disease, symptoms to look out for, preventative tips, and treatment options available to you through your Woodbury Dentist.

What Causes Gum Disease?

The catalysts for gum disease are reliant on a number of different factors for each individual. While sometimes the cause can be easily spotted, there are many instances where a closer look into family history and chemical makeup of the mouth need to be considered.

A few common causes for periodontal disease are:

  • Poor dental hygiene
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Medications
  • Hormonal changes
  • Genetic susceptibility

What Are The Symptoms of Gum Disease?

Symptoms of gum disease can be everything from undetectable to severe, depending on the type and stage of the disease. If you are experiencing any combination of the symptoms listed below, contact your Woodbury dentist as soon as possible.

  • Pain, redness, or swelling in the gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Receding gum line
  • Pain while chewing
  • Loose teeth
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Change in bite pattern
  • Pus

How is Gum Disease Treated?

Prompt treatment and after-care of gum disease in extremely important to maintaining oral health for the long haul. Your Woodbury dentist will perform a complete periodontal exam to determine whether the form of treatment will be surgical or nonsurgical.

Scaling and Root planning are both nonsurgical procedures for preventing gum disease and treating mild to moderate cases of existing disease. These treatments remove the bacteria causing inflammation in the effected area, and may entail antibiotics or prescription mouthwash to help rid the infection.

Surgical procedures available include pocket elimination surgery and jawbone surgery, which both work to reduce spaces and indentations in the mouth to prevent the buildup of harmful toxins and bacteria. Tissue regeneration and dental implants are also corresponding surgical procedures that strengthen the jawbone to restore the mouth with prosthetic teeth.

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?

Taking preventative action against gum disease is vital to the longevity of your oral health, and a sparkly smile. Often times, this requires changing or eliminating the habits that lead to gum disease in the first place. Scheduling regular check-ups with your Woodbury dentist will not only help spot minor issues before they evolve into much worse, but it also allows your dentist to assist in developing a personal prevention plan catered to your lifestyle. Call today to learn more about our periodontal screenings and preventative methods!