There is a growing epidemic in the world of dental health, as some statistics reflect that 80% of adult Americans suffer from some form of gum disease. A serious condition, it’s important that it be addressed in a timely fashion. As you continue reading, learn how it is identified and how your dentist in Agawam can treat it.
What is Gum Disease?
To understand the effects of gum disease, let’s first identify where it comes from: accelerated bacteria growth. These microorganisms are already present in your mouth, but when there is leftover debris from food or beverage consumption, they scurry to the area to feed and multiply.
Their favorite source of sustenance is sugar, and when the bacteria feed on it, they release caustic fluids that can contribute to gum inflammation, infection and the formation of germ pockets, which are some of the traits associated with gum disease.
The Typical Warning Signs of Gum Disease
The first step to treating gum disease is to recognize these common symptoms:
- Puffiness
- Swelling
- Red spots
- Chronic bad breath
- Tenderness to the touch
- Bleeding when you brush your teeth or eat
Diagnosis and Treatment
When you visit your dentist for preventive care, your appointment will begin with the dental hygienist thoroughly cleaning your teeth. Then, an oral examination will be conducted. At this time, he or she will be looking for the above-listed indicators of gum disease.
This is of paramount importance because with early detection and treatment, you can save money, avoid unnecessary suffering, and you can have your gum health restored in a less invasive manner. Depending on the severity of your condition, here are some of the available treatment methods.
Scaling and Root Planing
Also called a deep cleaning, the scaling and root planing procedure first involves the removal of bacteria and plaque that have gathered beneath the gum line. Then, the roots of the affected teeth are smoothed to make it harder for any new bacteria to cling to them and cause more damage.
Antibiotic Therapy
Another option is for your dentist to administer an antibiotic medication, which is often used in conjunction with the other treatment measures. It has one simple mission: to find bacteria beneath the gum line and eradicate them.
DNA Therapy
As a reflection of the constant technological and scientific advancements in dentistry, there is now DNA therapy available. It involves you taking a test to identify any gene markers that put you at a higher risk of developing gum disease.
By focusing treatment around these indicators, your dentist can more effectively manage your recovery.
The greatest take-away here is that by being proactive about your oral health and receiving gum disease therapy, you can recover faster and get back to leading a normal life!
About the Author
A graduate of The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, Dr. Frank Michitti is a fixture in the Agawam community. To distinguish himself as one of the top 1% of dentists in the country, he has met the rigorous demands of taking over 1,000 hours of continuing education to be awarded Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Michitti puts his expertise to good use by treating gum disease at Lifetime Dental, and he can be reached for more information through his website.