Almost 50 percent of Americans 30 and over have some form of periodontal (gum) disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Gum disease signs can be subtle initially. In fact, you may not even be aware you have the disease. Your Fort Lauderdale, FL, dentist Dr. David Erdman offers treatments that help you maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Periodontal disease threatens your oral health
Periodontal disease occurs when you develop a bacterial infection in your gum tissue. Your mouth is constantly coated with a sticky bacterial film called plaque that forms on your teeth and extends beneath your gums.
A good oral hygiene routine offers a simple way to prevent an infection. If you don't brush your teeth regularly or thoroughly, or miss a few spots when you brush and floss, plaque turns into a hard deposit called tartar. Tartar also contains bacteria, but unlike plaque, tartar can only be removed during a dental cleaning. When the bacteria in plaque and tartar cause periodontal disease, you may experience a variety of symptoms, including:
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss your teeth
- Pain when chewing
- Red, puffy, painful gums
- Pockets (spaces that form when your gums begin to pull away from your teeth)
- Chronic bad breath
- A change in your bite or the fit of your dentures
Although poor oral hygiene habits can cause gum disease, other factors can also increase your risk, such as:
- A family history of the disease
- Smoking or using chewing tobacco
- Poor nutrition
- Medications that dry your mouth
- Substance abuse
How is periodontal disease treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the disease. If you have gingivitis, the mildest form of periodontal disease, you may benefit from scaling and root planning. The deep dental cleaning removes plaque, tartar and bacteria above and below the gum line and smooths tooth roots, inhibiting bacterial growth. Your Fort Lauderdale dentist will also provide advice on the best brushing and flossing techniques to limit plaque and tartar buildup in the future.
Other periodontal treatments can include antibiotic mouth rinses and topical medications, bite adjustments to protect loose teeth or surgery.
Do you have any signs of periodontal disease? Call Fort Lauderdale, FL, dentist Dr. David Erdman at (954) 564-1605 to schedule your appointment.