What To Know About The Causes And Forms Of Gum Disease

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At Dentistry By Angela Britt, we do more than offer general dentistry services, restore teeth after decay and create beautiful smiles with the help of cosmetic dentistry treatments. We also inspect the mouth for other serious oral health complications such as gum disease. Gum disease is a serious gum infection, accompanied by inflammation, caused by bacterial growth along the gumline and around the base of the tooth.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is typically caused by poor oral hygiene habits. We stress the importance of proper oral hygiene care not only to help prevent tooth decay, but to ensure your gums remain healthy as well. When teeth are not cleaned and cared for properly, bacteria lingers between the teeth and along the gumline, leading to the development of plaque. Over time, plaque eventually becomes an infection that can cause lasting damage to your oral health. We recommend routine hygiene examinations as a way to not only inspect for tooth decay, but also to properly clean the teeth and monitor the gums for infection and disease.

Forms of Gum Disease

Gum disease comes in two forms, one being more severe than the other. Gingivitis is the more common stage of gum disease and is typically associated with swollen, red, irritated gums. Gingivitis is the name given to the early stage of the disease. When left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis, the more severe form of the disease. Periodontitis will eventually lead to complications with not only your teeth, but the jawbone as well. Lack of treatment during this stage will ultimately result in the deterioration of the bone that supports the teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss.

Gum Therapy Treatments

We believe in treating the gums in the least invasive way possible, typically through non-surgical periodontal treatment. After inspecting your mouth, we will determine a treatment plan that will restore your oral health. We may suggest a treatment such as scaling and root planing, antibiotic therapy or the use of Perio Protect Trays.

If you are located in the Brunswick, GA area and are concerned about the state of your gums or are in need of a routine dental examination, please contact our office to schedule an appointment.

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