Important Information About Gum Disease
At Muse Dental Studio, we complete a thorough inspection of your oral health during your routine examinations. When patients have not visited the dentist in some time, their immediate first thought is usually about tooth decay. However, there is another concern that our team checks for during your routine hygiene examination—gum disease. Gum disease, also called periodontitis, is a common disease that affects the gums surrounding the tooth. It is an irritation and infection in and around the gums and can range from minor symptoms, like bleeding gums when brushing, to severe symptoms, such as loose teeth. A more mild form of gum disease is known as gingivitis and is easily treated when detected early.
What Causes Gum Disease?
There can be a number of causes in the development of gum disease. The most common is poor oral hygiene. Patients that do not properly brush their teeth twice daily and use dental floss regularly are more likely to develop gum disease. Gum disease is also more common in patients who are smokers and who have a family history of needing treatment. Early detection is the key in treating gum disease. This is one of the reasons we recommend visiting our office every six months. It is a great way that we can treat any issues as soon as they arise and lessen your chances of experiencing something more severe such as tooth loss.
Signs of Gum Disease
Gum disease is known as a silent disease due to the lack of discomfort and typical warning signs associated with tooth decay. Many patients who are diagnosed are surprised as they were not experiencing symptoms. There are signs that you can be mindful of when caring for your teeth and gums between appointments:
- Swollen or irritated gums
- Gums that are excessively red
- Bleeding gums when you brush your teeth
- Unexplained bad breath
- Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth
If you are noticing any of the warning signs mentioned above or if you have not visited our office in the past 6 months for a hygiene examination, call to schedule an appointment today at our office located in Houston, TX. We look forward to seeing you soon!
