Gum Disease Treatment: 5 Signs You May Have Gum Disease

Gum disease can quickly lead to adverse issues, like tooth loss, so getting gum disease treatment as soon as possible is essential. Knowing how to spot the early signs of gum disease increases the odds of getting early treatment. Gum disease can be reversed if a dentist starts treatments during the early stage, called gingivitis.

Gum disease is not always easy to spot. It is often painless, and its symptoms can be quite subtle in the early stage. Let us take a look at the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease.

Signs that you might have gum disease 

The most common signs that indicate the development of gum disease include the following.

1. Swollen and reddish gums

Gum disease occurs when bacteria in plaque and tartar get beneath the gums. It leads to the immune system sending antibodies to eliminate the invading germs. The result of the ensuing battle is often inflamed, tender, reddish gums.

2. Receding gums

Gum recession can be the result of bacteria pockets developing in the gums due to gum disease. This typically leads to gum tissues pulling back from teeth roots, leaving them exposed. Gum recession can also be caused by poor brushing habits.

3. Constant bad breath

The bacterial infection that leads to gum disease can also lead to bad breath.  The odor is caused by a chemical reaction between peptides and proteins in the mouth and the bacteria that cause gum disease. It results in volatile sulfur compounds that cause halitosis.

4. Loose teeth

The inflammation caused by antibodies trying to eliminate bacteria in the gums can lead to the disintegration of the structures that support teeth, like gum and bone tissue. That leads to loose teeth that will eventually fall out if left untreated. Bone and gum grafts can be used to repair loose teeth.

5. Pus forming in and around certain teeth

Gum disease can lead to pockets of pus, called periodontal abscesses, developing in the gums. The pocket often takes a spherical shape as it pokes through inflamed gum tissues. Such pockets can lead to periodontal disease if left untreated.

Treating gum disease 

There are a few different ways to treat gum disease, however, one of the most popular, and more recent options is called LANAP®, which is a laser treatment that encourages regeneration of the tissues. LANAP® is known to be less painful, less invasive and offers quick recovery with little to no gum tissue loss.

LANAP® treatment works by targeting the unhealthy parts of the gums, which appears as inflammation or irritation. Once targeted, the laser is able to successfully remove the infected areas, without hurting or damaging the healthy parts of the tissue. From there, gum disease can be rid of and the oral cavity can make its way back to being healthy.

Get periodontal disease under control

Dealing with gum disease? Call our office to set up an appointment so you can get the treatment you need.

Request an appointment here: https://www.casasadobesdentistry.com or call Casas Adobes Dentistry at (520) 365-0559 for an appointment in our Tucson office.