Gum Disease Burbank, CA
Info on Gum Disease provided by Lawrence Toomin, DDS
and Mark Bieber, DDS
in Burbank, CA at Toomin & Bieber Aesthetic Comprehensive Dentistry
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an inflammation of the gums that can eventually harm the tissue and bone that surround and support your teeth. Gum disease primarily comes about due to plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that irritate your gum line as it builds up. Often, there are few noticeable signs or symptoms of gum disease, and patients rarely experience pain.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. Because gum disease is usually painless, you may not know you have it. Also referred to as periodontal disease, gum disease is caused by the bacteria that is constantly forming on our teeth.
Warning Signs of Gum Disease
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Gums that bleed easily
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Red, swollen, tender gums |
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Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
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Persistent bad breath or bad taste |
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Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
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Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
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Any change in the fit of partial dentures |
There are many factors that increase the risk of developing gum disease, including: smoking, pregnancy and diabetes. It is important to visit Toomin & Bieber Aesthetic Comprehensive Dentistry if you suspect you have gum disease, because the sooner you treat it, the better.
The Early Stage of Gum Disease Is Called Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a mild, early stage of gum disease that can still be reversed. Gingivitis is one of the most common oral health concerns that we at Toomin & Bieber Aesthetic Comprehensive Dentistry and all dentists see. Over 47% of Americans aged 30 or older have some form of gum disease according to the American Academy of Periodontology.
If you have gingivitis, your gums may become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is still reversible and can usually be eliminated by a professional cleaning at your dental office, followed by daily brushing and flossing.
Advanced Gum Disease Is Called Periodontitis
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Chronic periodontitis can lead to the loss of tissue and bone that support the teeth and it may become more severe over time. If it does, your teeth will feel loose and start moving around in your mouth. It usually gets worse slowly, but there can be periods of rapid progression.
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Aggressive periodontitis is a highly destructive form of periodontal disease that occurs in patients who are otherwise healthy. Common features include rapid loss of tissue and bone, and may occur in localized areas or in the entire mouth. Periodontal disease cannot be cured, however, we have measures to help slow or stop the progression. |
Research between systemic diseases and periodontal diseases is ongoing. While a link is not conclusive, some studies indicate that severe gum disease may be associated with several other health conditions such as diabetes or stroke.
Schedule Your Periodontal Appointment
Regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are very important. The treatment methods that our dentists diagnose will depend upon the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed. Good dental care at home is essential for helping to keep periodontal disease from becoming more serious. Call us at (818) 748-9998 to schedule your appointment and find the right gum disease treatment for you. |