What you Need to Know About Gum Disease

What you Need to Know About Gum Disease

Did you know that 64.7 million Americans, 30 years old and up, have some degree of gum disease? This statistic from the American AcademyGum Disease of Periodontology is frightening considering what gum disease ultimately leads to--that is, tooth loss and systemic health issues. How healthy are your gums? Dr. Anthony Vitale and Dr. Jin Yoo of Personal Choice Dental want all their patients fully educated about gum disease in Old Bridge, NJ. Healthy gums are a sure way to strong teeth and a vibrant you.

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

From milder gingivitis to more aggressive periodontitis, this inflammatory condition of the gums starts with the bacteria which live in biofilm. What's biofilm? it's the plaque and tartar which builds up at the gum line and in between teeth. If not removed with professional cleanings at Personal Choice Dental and with daily flossing and brushing, plaque and tartar degrade your gum tissue and underlying jaw bone.

From its mildest to its most advanced form, gum disease symptoms include:

  • Bleeding when you brush and floss
  • Soreness
  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Bad breath
  • Periodontal pockets (spaces between teeth and gums) deeper than three millimeters
  • Loose teeth
  • Receding gums
  • Changes in the fit of a denture or in dental bite
  • Exposed tooth roots (a "long tooth" appearance)

Gum disease progresses more quickly than most people realize. Also, it leads to bigger health problems such as diabetes, stroke, heart attack, dementia, liver and kidney problems and more. That's why six-month cleanings and exams with your dentist in Old Bridge are so very important. Both Dr. Vitale and Dr. Yoo are vigilant about preventing and treating gum disease.

How to treat gum disease in Old Bridge

Even children can have gum disease, but frankly, adults who smoke, drink too much alcohol or don't keep up with their oral hygiene are at greatest risk. Plus while gum disease runs in families and is more common during pregnancy or when a patient is immunosuppressed, it can be treated and reversed if it has not progressed too far. Dr. Vitale and Dr. Yoo work hard with their patients to develop the habits that prevent gum disease:

  • Brushing and flossing
  • Staying hydrated
  • Smoking cessation
  • Limiting alcohol
  • Eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables

However, if gum disease takes hold, the dentists offer treatments which help people regain healthy gum tissue and to retain their teeth. At Personal Choice Dental, periodontal therapy includes:

  • Scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar and to smooth the rough spots on roots
  • Flap surgery which moves gums away from tooth roots so they can thoroughly be cleaned
  • Installation of oral antibiotics to quell infection

Know the Basics

They could save your smile. If it's time for your regular oral exam and professional cleaning at Personal Choice Dental, please contact the office team today for an appointment. Call (732) 727-1211.

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