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Almost half of Americans 30 years or older have some form of periodontal disease—an infection of the gum tissue. While this problem, sometimes referred to as gum disease, is fairly common, there are many ways to lower your risk and prevent it from worsening. However, if prompt care isn’t provided by a dentist, your oral health can suffer significantly. To help you guard your gums against infection, here are a few answers to frequently asked questions.

4 Common Questions About Periodontal Disease

What are the risks involved?

In the earlier stages of the condition, individuals will notice several negative changes to their gums—such as swelling, bleeding, tenderness, and redness. As the infection progresses, the gum tissue will recede to expose sensitive portions of teeth. Eventually, the tissue will become loose, allowing teeth to loosen or fall out. Periodontal disease is also linked to a higher risk of developing other health problems—including heart disease.

What are the stages of this condition?

The initial stage of the disease, known as gingivitis, is a mild infection of the gums. While it may cause gum tissue irritation, it is often reversible with early preventative care from a dentist or dental hygienist.

Periodontitis is the later stage of the condition, in which pockets of space form between teeth and gum tissue. These gingival pockets can provide a great hiding space for bacterial plaque and tartar, and in turn, worsen the infection. Eventually, bone and tooth loss will occur.

Who is most at risk?

dentistEveryone has the potential to develop periodontal disease. However, certain groups may face a higher risk of gum infection. For example, pregnant women may experience hormonal changes that leave them more vulnerable to infection. People with diabetes or other immune-compromising conditions might have trouble fighting off bacterial infections that cause periodontal disease. People who smoke, use certain medications, or have sleep apnea might have trouble producing saliva—a natural component that neutralizes bacterial activity in the mouth.

How is periodontal disease prevented & treated?

Twice-daily brushing, daily flossing, and biannual cleanings from a dentist all play a critical role in protecting your gums from plaque. If treatment is necessary, dentists can sometimes clear the infection by prescribing antibiotics and providing root scaling and planing to deep-clean gingival pockets. When gum recession is present, healthy tissue may need to be surgically grafted to the affected area.

 

If you’re concerned about your gum health, Steckelberg Dental is here to protect your smile. Serving the Lincoln, NE area, this family dentist is equipped to provide in-depth preventive care to keep periodontal disease, cavities, and other problems at bay. When infections are present, this provider also offers extensive periodontal disease treatments—such as scaling and root planing, as periodontal maintenance therapy. This clinic also offers cosmetic dentistry services—such as dental implants—to help repair missing teeth. Visit this dental clinic online to learn more about these treatment options or call (402) 489-7800 to schedule a convenient appointment.   

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