Healthy gums support healthy teeth!
Bleeding gums are often the early warning sign that gum disease is present. Gum disease affects over 75% of adults and is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Many patients do not realize they have some form of gum disease until a visit to our Pinehurst dentist office or the development of more complex dental problems. Gum disease is caused by plaque beneath the gum line that can eventually cause the attachment of the tooth and supporting tissues to break down if left untreated.
During preventive dental care, Dr. Clement Monroe or Dr. Kamron Monroe perform a periodontal screening, looking for the early signs of gum disease. Routine dental care plays an important role in the prevention of gum disease and the maintenance of healthy teeth.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease:
- Gums that bleed during brushing
- Swollen, red gums
- Receding gums
- Loose or shifted teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Changes in the fit of dentures
- Sores in the mouth
If you notice any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment or mention it at your upcoming preventive care visit with us.
Gum disease progresses through several stages when it is not treated, eventually posing a threat to the integrity of the teeth and possibly requiring oral surgery to correct and restore oral health.
Gingvitis
The beginning stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. In most cases, conservative treatment and at home oral care can effectively stop the progression of the disease and restore dental health.
Periodontitis
Advanced gum disease is called periodontitis. At this stage of disease, the supporting tissues for the teeth are compromised and infected, often causing loose or shifting teeth. If not treated, tooth loss is possible as well as other complex dental problems.
With regular preventive dental care in our Pinehurst dentist office, patients can avoid the risk of developing late stage gum disease.
Treating Gum Disease
Dr. Clement and Dr. Kamron Monroe offer several periodontal therapy treatment options for patients suffering from gum disease.
For early stage gum disease, or gingivitis, a procedure called scaling and root planing can effectively remove plaque and tartar from the gum line and tooth roots. Dr. Clement or Dr. Kamron may also recommend additional at home oral hygiene products to maintain healthy gums between visits.
If periodontitis is present, Dr. Clement or Dr. Kamron will recommend a more intensive plan of treatment which may include oral surgery to remove diseased tissue.