Periodontal Disease damages and can destroy the soft tissues and bones that surround your teeth and hence it’s a disease that should not be taken lightly.  Such a disease can lead to tooth loss.  Like most dental diseases and mishaps, periodontitis can be avoided by proper oral hygiene habits.  If brushing twice a day, flossing at least once a day and attending regular dental checkups are not on your to-do list, early stages of gum disease may be in your near future.  Here at Lasting Smiles of Prospect, we educate our patients on how to avoid gum disease and also offer several periodontics’ services if needed.

Gum disease is typically caused when plaque (a sticky clear layer of bacteria) builds up on your teeth and is not removed properly via brushing and flossing.  Whether we like it or not, our mouths are full of bacteria.  With the help of naturally occurring mucus and saliva in our mouths, bacteria is constantly being adhered to our teeth in the form of plaque.  It is our job to properly remove plaque from our teeth by brushing and flossing regularly.  When these important oral hygiene habits are not done effectively, the plaque hardens into something called tartar.  Tartar can only be removed by dental professionals.  The sooner you seek care from your family dentist, the better your chances are at preventing and treating gum disease.

What Else Can Cause Gum Disease?

  • Hormonal Changes – Pregnancy, menopause, puberty and monthly menstruation can make women’s’ gums more sensitive – making it easier for gum disease to develop.
  • Illnesses – Diseases and illnesses that affect your immune system, such as cancer and diabetes, put you at a greater risk for periodontal disease. 
  • Medications – Some medications can lessen your production of saliva, which helps to protect your teeth and gums.  Other medications may make you bleed more easily, affecting your gum health. 
  • Bad Habits – Smoking and vaping can negatively affect your gum health. 
  • Family History – Family medical history of dental disease can make your chances of developing periodontal disease greater. 

Ideal and healthy gums fit snugly around your teeth.  They should be pale pink in color and have a firm texture.  Unhealthy gums can be swollen, puffy and red in color.  They can also feel tender to the touch and bleed easily. 

Some other common symptoms of Periodontal (Gum) Disease include:

  • Bad breath
  • Painful chewing
  • Loose teeth
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Receding gums

Lasting Smiles of Prospect offer a number of periodontics dental services, including periodontal surgery, grafting and scaling & root planing.  If you notice any symptoms of periodontitis or suffer from a family history of gum disease, make an appointment with us right away.  We are happy to serve the Prospect, CT region and pride ourselves in our dental services.  Contact us at (203) 527-3855 to schedule your appointment today.