Approximately 50% of adults over thirty years of age in the US are affected by gum disease. Also known as gingivitis, gum disease can have adverse effects on your dental health if you don’t seek the needed medical treatment.  The experienced dental team at Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates, offers diagnosis and treatment of Midtown gingivitis before it develops to other severe forms of gum disease. If you have a sign of red, swollen, or tender or bleeding gums, call or book an appointment online to start treatment today.

What Exactly Is Gingivitis?

Also referred to as periodontal disease, gingivitis is typically a gum disease. It is a gum infection that can result in gum recession or even tooth loss if not treated. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and is easier to treat than more advanced disease stages.

What Is The Cause Of Gum Disease?

Gingivitis is caused by plaque, a sticky bacteria film that builds up on teeth. With time, the plaque on your tooth infests the gums causing gingivitis. The diseased tissue located below the gum line builds pockets that can separate the gums from your teeth.

What Are The Symptoms Of Gingivitis?

Healthy gums have a light pink color and fit firmly around your teeth. The symptoms of gingivitis include:

•   Bleeding gums
•   Puffy and swollen gums
•   Bright red gums
•   A receding gum line
•   Tender gums
•   Bad breath
•   Gums pulling away from teeth
•   Pus between your gums and teeth

When left untreated, periodontal disease can advance into more severe stages. It can even affect the jaw bone that supports your teeth, making them become loose or even fall off. Hence, you should visit an experienced dental provider at the first sign of gingivitis to alleviate your risk of harder-to-treat complications.  

What Are The Gum Disease Risk Factors?

Various factors can increase your chances of developing gingivitis. These include:

•   Smoking
•   Pregnancy
•   Chewing tobacco
•   Diabetes
•   Particular medications
•   Crooked teeth 
•   Old fillings
•   Improperly-fitted bridges
•   Genetics

You may not notice gingivitis symptoms during the early stages. This is what necessitates going for routine dental checkups about two times a year.  Routine practices, such as brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice daily, flossing, using an antiseptic mouthwash, and going for dental cleanings can reduce your risk of developing gum disease.

What Should You Expect During Gingivitis Treatment?

When you go to Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates to treat gum disease, the provider will start by reviewing your symptoms and medical history of your oral health. They will assess your gums and teeth by taking dental x-rays.

Your individualized treatment plan will vary depending on the severity of the gum disease. The dentist might recommend non-surgical treatments, including at-home gum disease trays, root planing, and in-office scaling to clean your teeth thoroughly and remove the plaque and tartar. The doctor might recommend laser gum surgery, bone and soft tissue grafts, or installing dental implants for missing permanent teeth for severe gum diseases.

In conclusion, gingivitis can have adverse effects on your dental health, including your smile. Maintain healthy teeth and a beautiful smile by routine dental visits to diagnose gingivitis early at Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates. Schedule a dental appointment online or contact the office by phone today.

Sheri gill