Gum disease can be painless when in the early stages of development. Without routine visits to the dentist for check-ups and exams, many people will be unaware that they could have a potentially debilitating gum disease like gingivitis and periodontitis, which not only affects their oral health, but once in the later stages, these diseases can spread to affect other parts of the body. Dr. Shimizu says there are many studies which show that manifestation of serious diseases, such as heart disease and colon cancer, can begin with bacteria in the mouth. This is why it is so important to have an effective daily dental hygiene routine at home, along with dental visits at least twice a year to prevent or stop the progression of gum disease before it’s too late.
Gingivitis
The medical term for early gum disease, gingivitis is the presence of plaque and tartar on the tooth surface and/or gum tissue. Both plaque and tartar contain harmful bacteria that cause gum tissue and teeth to become inflamed. Gingivitis is reversible with daily brushing and flossing and regular visits to the dentist, however if left untreated can lead to periodontitis / periodontal disease.
Symptoms Include
- Bad breath
- Swollen gums
- Dark red gums
- Tender gums
- Receding gums
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
Periodontitis
Gingivitis that spreads below the gum line, forming pockets around the teeth and affecting the bone and tooth structure, can turn into periodontitis causing the teeth to loosen and resulting in tooth loss. Generally the result of poor oral hygiene, periodontitis is largely preventable with good oral hygiene habits.
Symptoms Include
- Swollen gums
- Bright red or dark purple gums
- Tenderness in gums when touched
- Gums that easily bleed
- Receding gums that pull away from your teeth
- New spaces developing between your teeth
- Pus pockets between your teeth and gums
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Painful chewing
Treatment
Daily brushing and flossing along with regular visits to the dentist are essential for maintaining good oral health. With that, eating healthy, a low-sugar diet, cutting back on alcohol and tobacco products will help substantially. An in-office cleaning by Dr. Shimizu is the only way to successfully remove plaque that has hardened into tartar. If you have a more advanced gum disease of infected periodontal pockets and gums, then scaling and root planning can be performed at our dental office here in San Jose. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of gum disease, San Jose Dentist Dr. Shimizu is here to help create a customized treatment plan that can help you significantly improve the health of your teeth and gums. If you would like to learn more about how to implement good dental hygiene to maintain your oral health, or if you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shimizu, please contact us today.
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