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Gum disease is also known as periodontitis. It is a common infection of the gums that attacks the soft tissue and can eventually reach the underlying bone. If the disease is not treated timely, patients can suffer loose teeth that can ultimately fall out. At Dental Concepts, our team of dentists is experienced in treating this disease to improve your oral health.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Plaque commonly causes this disease. This sticky film is comprised of bacteria and acids that are harmful to teeth. As time goes on and the plaque remains on the teeth, it hardens and becomes tartar. This tartar needs to be professionally removed in our Salinas, CA, office. Tartar and plaque attack the teeth, first damaging the enamel before reaching the innermost layer.

Patients can suffer from gingivitis first, which is the first stage. Gingivitis can worsen and lead to pockets developing between your teeth and gums where bacteria, plaque, and tartar accumulate. These pockets can get deeper and lead to a loss of tissue, bone, and teeth.

Who Does it Affect?

Gum disease affects people of all ages. One of the biggest factors of developing this infection is if you have poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing and flossing regularly. Other risk factors include:

  • Genetics
  • Diseases like cancer, HIV/AIDS, and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Smoking cigarettes
  • Drug abuse
  • Poor nutrition
  • Hormonal changes

What are the Symptoms?

Patients can experience a wide array of symptoms. Gum disease is often noticeable by puffy and swollen gums. Gums often bleed easily. Other symptoms include:

  • Gums that feel tender to the touch
  • Dusky or bright red gums
  • Pain when chewing
  • Spaces or gaps that develop between the teeth
  • Receding gums that pull away from your teeth
  • Blood appears when brushing or flossing
  • Bad breath

When Should I Seek Treatment?

Patients should seek treatment as soon as they notice any signs or symptoms. The longer symptoms persist, the more damage that can happen to your teeth and gums. By visiting your dentist for regular check-ups, he or she can minimize the harm caused by the infection.

Additionally, if the disease is left unchecked, the bacteria can spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream. These bacteria can cause respiratory issues, worsen autoimmune disorders, and make it harder to control insulin if you have diabetes.

What Treatment Options are Available?

When you visit our office, we examine your gums and teeth to determine if you are suffering from gum disease. If you have periodontitis, we can provide a deep cleaning to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria.

During dental scaling and root planing, the dentist removes the plaque and tartar that has formed above and below the gum line. Afterward, the doctor will smooth the teeth roots that have become rough and damaged due to gum disease. This allows the gums to reattach the teeth and prevent bacteria from accumulating.

If you have missing teeth, we offer dental implants in-house. The dentist places the implants in the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone. After fusion, we place a customized crown. As a result, you achieve a beautiful, dazzling smile that functions just like your natural teeth.

Learn More About Gum Disease

If you are experiencing signs of gum disease and need an examination, please call our office at 831-443-3633 to schedule a consultation. Our dental team will customize a treatment program to restore your teeth, gums, and overall oral health.