You may not have heard of periodontal disease, but many people you know may have it. More than 60% of all American adults have some form of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease also called gum disease, can cause real problems for your teeth and gums. Here is more information about periodontal disease.
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Bacteria cause periodontal disease. These bacteria live in your mouth and help to break down food. However, too many bacteria in your mouth is not a good thing. These bacteria, if left unchecked, can eat away at your teeth and gums and cause disease.
Signs of Periodontal Disease
There are three stages of periodontal disease. If you are concerned that you have periodontal disease, there are some signs you can look for when you are brushing and flossing. Stage One of the disease is usually called gingivitis. People who have gingivitis usually notice that their gums look red and swollen. They may also notice their gums bleed when they brush or floss. Luckily, if you have Stage One of periodontal disease, it can be treated with no lasting side effects for your gums.
Stages Two and Three of periodontal disease are called periodontitis. It is when a dental patient gets to Stage Two and Three that damage occurs to the gum tissue that can't be repaired. Spaces or pockets begin to develop between your teeth and gums. Food can become trapped in these pockets, and they can become infected as well. If the pockets become too deep, you can lose your teeth.
Luckily, there are treatments available even if you have periodontitis. Dentists can deep clean your gum tissues every three months to help you fight the disease. If you are worried about your gums, or whether you have periodontal disease, you should see a dental practitioner.
About | Wilmington, DE | Delaware Periodontics Above all else, we here at Delaware Periodontics want our patients to maintain healthy, bright, and beautiful smiles. Call us today to schedule an appointment! Delaware Periodontics - Dr Brad Klassman, 1110 N Bancroft Pkwy, Wilmington, DE 19805; 302-551-3553; delawareperiodontics.com; 10/8/2024; Tags: Dental Implants Wilmington De;