Periodontal disease, or “gum disease,” is a common oral health issue that affects the tissue surrounding the teeth. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to far more serious consequences.
Today, we’re taking a comprehensive look at periodontal disease, from its causes to its symptoms to treatment options.
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease typically results from an inconsistent or neglectful dental hygiene routine and infrequent dental exams, which combine to allow harmful plaque and tartar to build up on the surfaces of the teeth and the gums.
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. Mild cases of gum disease are typically the result of untreated plaque buildup. When plaque is allowed to fester for a prolonged period, it hardens into tartar. Tartar, which cannot be combated via at-home oral care practices, can lead to far more serious dental and overall health issues.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Early gum disease, or “gingivitis,” is fairly mild and generally manifests in chronic bad breath and tenderness, inflammation, and swelling of the gums. In these early stages, gum disease can be treated with improved oral hygiene. However, more advanced cases call for more intensive treatments.
As the effects of gum disease become more severe, they result in long-term risks to dental and overall health, including:
- Pain or discomfort when biting or chewing
- Bleeding and receding gums, which can expose the roots of teeth to bacteria and plaque, and lead to shifting or tooth loss
- Dental abscesses, or the buildup of pus between the teeth and gums, which can lead to tooth loss and infection that can spread to the jawbone and elsewhere in the body
Popular Treatments for Gum Disease
Treatment options for individuals suffering from severe gum disease include:
- Scaling and root planing – deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from teeth and gums
- Antibiotics – oral or topical antibiotics to fight bacteria and reduce inflammation
- Laser therapy – the minimally-invasive removal of infected gum tissue using a special laser
- Surgery – in severe cases, surgery to remove damaged tissue may be necessary
Periodontal Disease Treatment in Midtown Manhattan
If you’re in the Midtown NYC area and would like to learn more about your gum disease treatment options, contact dentist Dr. Helma Philips and the Midtown NYC Dental team to schedule a consultation.