Dental and
Gum Health
Dental and Gum Health (Teeth for Life)
Dental and gum health by the dentist at Woodbury Dental and Laser Clinic are important aspects in achieving and maintaining good overall dental health status. The gums that surround the teeth provide additional protection and support, and should therefore be well taken care of to ensure that dental and gum problems do not have a chance to develop.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is caused by poor dental hygiene, which can result to the formation of plaque. The plaque that forms on the gum line and on the teeth surfaces can lead not only to gum disease, but also to tooth decay – especially if proper dental attention is not sought soon enough.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
The following are the most common symptoms of problems with dental and gum health:
- Tender, swollen, or red gums
- Gums that bleed easily with even the slightest pressure, especially when brushing the teeth
- Gums that slowly recede, causing the more of the tooth structure to be exposed; receding gums that are not addressed in the earliest stages can also cause the roots of the tooth to be exposed – a very uncomfortable dental and gum health problem.
- A persistent bad taste in the mouth, or bad breath that cannot be remedied by tooth brushing or the use of mouth rinses
- Teeth that start to loosen, or teeth that start to shift from their original positions
- The formation of deep pockets in between the teeth and the gums; left untreated, this condition can result to tooth loss.
Types of Gum Diseases
Gingivitis – Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums, and is considered as the mildest type of gum disease. Gingivitis is caused by improper dental health practises, but can also be the result of any of these factors: smoking, effects of medications taken, and existing medical conditions. Common symptoms of gingivitis include gums that are swollen or bleed easily, and are red in appearance. If gingivitis is not given the proper dental treatment, it can progress to periodontitis.
Periodontitis – Periodontitis is the result of gingivitis that has been left to worsen. The plaque and bacteria that have been left to build up may go under the gum line, causing painful pockets between the gums and the teeth. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.
Dental and Gum Health Treatment
Medications – Dental and gum health treatment by the dentist at Woodbury Dental and Laser Clinic may involve the use of medications to stop or prevent the spread of further infection, and to kill the bacteria that is causing the gum problems. Antibiotic gels, oral and antimicrobial mouth rinses, and oral antibiotics may be prescribed for the treatment of gum diseases.
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