The statistics are shocking: almost half of all adults have gum disease. That’s 65 million people. Although gum disease is common, most of us don’t know the symptoms.
Gingivitis begins when mouth bacteria cause inflammation and bleeding of the gums. People may also notice that they have halitosis, or bad breath, that doesn’t go away after brushing. Gingivitis can escalate to periodontal disease, where bacteria deposits plaque deep below the gum line.
Senior citizens and smokers have the highest risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease. The good news is that it’s possible to reverse gum disease with deep cleanings and regular care. Although, it is important to note that once the disease progresses, it can no longer be reversed, only maintained.
How to Monitor Oral Health
Unfortunately, it’s possible to have gum disease and not realize it. That’s why it’s important to meet with a dentist every six months for teeth cleaning.
Technicians will remove plaque and evaluate the state of patients’ mouths and gums. Here are a few signs that it’s time to schedule a cleaning.
- Tooth sensitivity
If you can bite into an ice cream cone without pain, you do not have tooth sensitivity. Gum disease often causes a severe reaction to hot or cold foods, but there are other potential causes including:
- Cavities
- Loose fillings
- Exposed tooth roots
- Cracked teeth
Tooth sensitivity is treatable by a dentist. They may recommend medication, put in fillings, or use medical-grade sealants.
- Loose teeth
When bridges or dentures suddenly don’t fit anymore, the culprit could be shifting teeth. Gingivitis causes the gums to recede, providing less support for the teeth. Dentists use laser treatments to deep clean teeth, a process also called root planing and scaling.
The results can be dramatic and patients should notice that their teeth feel more secure. If there is too much damage to the root, dentists may recommend extraction. In general, dentists try to preserve the teeth for as long as possible.
- Metallic taste in the mouth
The third telltale sign of gum disease is a metallic or bitter taste in the mouth. It is not a product of eating certain foods and can arise at any time of day. This taste may linger even after flossing and brushing.
The body’s systems are all connected, so any infection in the mouth will circulate throughout the entire body. The mouth is part of the digestive system, so gingivitis could cause migraines and stomach pain. Once the infection is cleared, peripheral symptoms should also improve.
When you talk to a dentist, make sure to inform them of your symptoms. They will be able to tell whether you need deep cleaning from a brief visual exam.
Treating gingivitis is an ongoing process. Depending upon the severity of the disease, dentists may recommend tissue grafting or laser therapy.
Work With an Experienced, Compassionate Dental Team
If you haven’t been to the dentist for a while, there’s no time like the present! Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist is known for being compassionate and gentle, a winning combination for our patients.
Whether you need a deep cleaning or dental veneers, Dr. Ragsdale can help. She focuses on cosmetic, restorative, and preventive dentistry. Our team is happy to help you get your teeth in tip-top shape.
Give us a call at (512) 346-4690 to schedule your initial consultation. If a current patient referred you, please let us know! We look forward to meeting with you!
