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Gum Disease in Silver Spring, MD Gums are an essential part of our dental structure. They encase our teeth's roots, protecting them from damage and ensure our teeth are secure in their sockets. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease development, periodontitis, which can eventually lead to tooth loss. Periodontitis is quite common and treatable if caught early on. If left undetected, it can cause substantial damage to the tooth, its root, and even the jaw bone. However, you can prevent periodontitis by maintaining optimal oral hygiene, brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and getting bi-annual dental exams. Symptoms of PeriodontitisRegular dental checkups can help identify periodontitis symptoms, increase your chances of getting successful treatment, and reduce the damage done to the gums.
Gum inflammation is one of the earliest signs of periodontitis. Normal healthy gums are pale pink and fit tightly around the teeth. If you notice your gums are turning a bright red or pink, especially right around the teeth, you should immediately visit a dentist for periodontal treatment. Even though gingivitis is not always a symptom of periodontitis, it can turn into gum disease if left untreated. What Causes Periodontitis?Periodontitis is a gum infection that develops as a result of poor oral hygiene. Our mouth is full of bacteria that continually form plaque around and over our teeth. Brushing our teeth twice daily helps keep plaque buildup to a minimum. However, because plaque reproduces very quickly, you should also visit your dentist twice yearly for a professional dental cleaning to get rid of plaque buildup, no matter how minimal. Failure to prevent plaque buildup is one of the leading causes behind the development of gum disease. Other factors that can cause periodontitis include:
Patients with a family history of gum diseases, illnesses, hormonal changes, bad habits, poor oral hygiene, and certain medications can all lead to periodontitis development. The best way to minimize the damage and prevent tooth loss is to visit your dentist for professional dental cleaning and examination regularly. At Metropolitan Dental Specialty Group, we provide professional dental and oral health care services and can help detect early symptoms of periodontitis. Reach out to us for a consultation or visit our website for further details. |
