Tuesday 22 November 2016

Gum Disease and Bone Loss

Periodontitis or gum disease is an infection that damages your gums and destroys the bones supporting the teeth. It is one of the causes of tooth loss, but it can lead to an increased risk of serious health problems and conditions, too—including strokes and heart attacks. Although common, gum disease is highly preventable and can be treated before it is too late. It is a silent condition with virtually no symptoms until a dentist sees and inspects your mouth, so be sure to make regular dental appointments for proper diagnosis and treatment. Regular dental visits can help you avoid gum disease and bone loss.

You also need to make a daily effort to prevent gum disease in the first place. The best way to do this is by brushing at least two times a day and flossing once daily. Cosmetic dentists in Reston VA diagnose gum disease by examining your gums and looking for signs of swollen, purplish, or bright red areas. You might also have gum disease if your gums feel tender when touched or when they start pulling away or receding from your teeth. Other symptoms of gum disease include bad breath, loose teeth, pus forming between your gums and teeth, a bad taste in the mouth, and a change in your bite.

Bone loss is the result of severe and untreated gum disease. Digital imaging may be used to assess the condition of your facial tissues and bones, and the dentist may provide treatment to clear the bacterial infection causing gingivitis and plaque.

Healthy gums are pale pink and firm, so if you see that they have become red, puffy, or they start to bleed easily, then make an appointment with the dentist in Reston VA as soon as you can. The sooner you make that appointment and get checked up, the better your chances of minimizing the damage caused by gum disease. The dentist can provide the right treatment to reduce your chances of losing your teeth due to this condition.

No comments:

Post a Comment