GUM DISEASES
Gum diseases or periodontal diseases are bacterial diseases of the mouth. If gums diseases are not diagnosed and treated early at Wilmington Periodontics and Implants, the disease may progress, and you may end up losing all your teeth.
WHAT LEADS TO GUM DISEASES?
The causative agent for gum diseases is plaque. Dental plaque is the yellowish-grey substance that tenaciously adheres to the surface of the teeth, near or below the gumline. Dental Plaque consists of a complex of disease-causing bacteria that metabolize the sugars (which come from the food we eat) to release toxic acidic substances. These toxic byproducts generate an inflammatory response that leads to gum diseases.
Dr.Sanz at Wilmington advises visiting a periodontist regularly to ensure that this disease-causing plaque does not accumulate. Faulty oral hygiene practices can lead to plaque build-up and can have devastating consequences on the oral and overall health if not removed at the earliest. It can lead to bone infections, and you may also end up losing your teeth.
Please schedule an appointment with us at our dental clinic in Wilmington to consult our board-certified periodontist and stay at the top of your health.
WHO IS AT RISK OF GETTING GUM DISEASES?
Many kinds of research and studies have been conducted through the years, which has shown specific individuals to be more at risk of suffering from gum diseases and certain conditions which act as risk factors for gum diseases.
- Patients who suffer from type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
- Consumption of tobacco.
- Smoking.
- Hormonal changes during menstruation, menopause, and pregnancy.
- Blood cancer.
- Chemotherapy.
- Compromised immunity like that in HIV-AIDS.
- Faulty dentures, improper filling, and broken teeth.
- People who have a genetic predisposition towards gum diseases.
If you are at risk of suffering from gum diseases, do not delay dental treatments. Consult our board-certified periodontist Dr. Sanz at Wilmington Periodontics and Implants today to ensure that your gums stay happy and healthy.
TYPES OF GUM DISEASES
GINGIVITIS
Gingivitis means inflammation of the gingiva. It the mildest and most initial response of the gums to the bacterial attack. Gingivitis causes red, swollen, and tender gums. You may notice bleeding from gums during brushing and flossing. Gingivitis is a non-destructive gum disease and can be entirely resolved through treatment provided by a skilled periodontist in Wilmington.
PERIODONTITIS
If the initial lesion of gingivitis is left untreated, the bacterial disease of the gums progresses to a destructive advanced lesion known as periodontitis. Once periodontitis sets in, the bacteria from the plaque and tartar start attacking and destroying the jaw bone, which anchors the teeth. Soon, the gums begin to recede and expose the root surface of the teeth, which leads to lead sensitivity. The infection spreads, and the teeth start getting loose. Ultimately, the loose teeth will fall off. If periodontitis is also left untreated, the bacteria from the gums find a way to reach the bloodstream, leading to a generalized inflammatory response and causing sepsis. This is a dangerous and life-threatening condition that needs immediate medical attention or can become fatal.
TREATMENT OF GUM DISEASES AT WILMINGTON PERIODONTICS AND IMPLANTS
Once you schedule an appointment with us at Wilmington Periodontics and Implants, your oral health becomes our top priority. During your first visit, our board-certified dentist will conduct a thorough dental examination. In this time, they will examine the condition of each tooth and may also take some X-rays to determine the extent of the damage. Ensure that you elaborate your concerns to Dr. Sanz at Wilmington, as this will help them treat you more efficiently. After an examination, if you have gum diseases, they will make a treatment plan to address your concern and explain it. In case you have any questions about your treatment, feel free to ask your periodontist in Wilmington about them.
The treatment for gum diseases often starts with a thorough deep cleaning of the teeth and gums. Dr.Sanz, a board-certified periodontist at Wilmington, may also prescribe certain antibiotics to clear the bacterial infection. Prescription-strength mouthwashes may also be advised. As the disease progresses, gum surgeries and bone grafting may also be considered to save the teeth. In cases where the loose teeth cant be saved, our only option is to remove the teeth and replaced them with the help of dentures, dental bridges, or dental implants. Do not delay consulting a periodontist in Wilmington, as ignorance can lead to life without teeth. Please schedule an appointment today with us at Wilmington Periodontics and Implants and get the oral care you deserve.
