Tooth loss is among the most common oral problems in dentistry. It sabotages your self-esteem, particularly when you lose the front teeth. Since tooth loss is prevalent, be intentional about caring for your oral health so you can preserve your natural teeth. Part of minding your oral health involves seeking early periodontal treatment in Roseville, CA.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

It is an infection of the periodontium, usually affecting the gums and bone tissues. Periodontal disease can be a severe condition if left untreated for long. Usually, the infection occurs in two major stages:

1. Gingivitis – is the initial stage of periodontal disease. Gingivitis mostly affects the gums, manifesting mild symptoms. Unfortunately, many patients suffer from gingivitis and are unaware because the symptoms of infections are subtle.
2. Periodontitis – is an advanced stage of periodontal disease. This stage of infection is more severe as it begins to affect the jawbone and your natural teeth. Periodontitis occurs when you neglect gingivitis long enough without treatment.

How Will You Know You Have Periodontal Disease?

Usually, gum disease becomes more identifiable as it advances and worsens. Some of the symptoms linked to poor gum health and an underlying infection are:

1. Reddened and swollen gums.
2. Teeth sensitivity and gums that are tender to touch.
3. Bleeding gums when you brush your teeth or eat certain foods.
4. Jaw and gum pain when you chew.
5. Persistent bad breath and a foul taste in your mouth.
6. Open gingival embrasures – also called black triangle teeth.
7. Severe gum recession – enough to expose tooth roots.
8. Weak and wobbly teeth – are evident signs of severe periodontitis.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Various factors can affect your gum health. The risk factors of gums infection differ from one patient to another, including the following:

1. Poor oral hygiene – neglecting teeth brushing and flossing contributes to plaque and tartar build-up in your mouth. The bacteria thereof begin to harm the soft tissues. You may encounter other oral problems like dental cavities, tooth sensitivity, and bad breath.
2. Genetics and family history – if several people in your family have suffered from gum disease, you are at a high risk of getting it.
3. Hormonal imbalance – drastic hormonal changes can increase the risk of gum disease, especially during pregnancy and menopause for women.
4. Smoking or chewing tobacco – the long-term consumption of tobacco-based products eventually damages your oral soft tissues.
5. Poor lifestyle choices, like recreational vaping, smoking marijuana, and excessive alcohol consumption
6. Underlying health problems – particularly those that affect your nutrition and promote vitamin C deficiency

How Long Does Periodontal Disease Take to Heal?

The speed of healing when you have a gum infection depends on various factors, like the severity of the infection, and your swiftness to seek treatment from a dentist near you. Ideally, gingivitis heals faster than periodontitis. If you also seek treatment when you have few symptoms of infection, your recovery will also be fast. However, your body’s immune system and how well you care for your health post-treatment will influence your recovery period.

Your dentist in Roseville will tell you that you should expect to heal within two or three weeks if you comply with his/her recommendations. However, the advanced stage of gum disease may take a lot longer. The stakes are higher if the treatment protocol entails surgical measures.

What Are the Treatment Options for Saving Teeth with Severe Periodontal Disease?

Do not hesitate to visit us at Smile Shine Dental if you want to increase your chances of saving your natural teeth with severe periodontal disease. The sooner you get a correct diagnosis, the quicker you can begin your treatment.

Some treatment protocols that can help preserve your natural teeth if you have periodontitis are:

1. Scaling and root planing – are procedures that remove plaque and tartar from teeth and below the gum line. Root planing also helps smoothen the tooth roots to discourage future buildup.
2. Gum grafting surgery –helps restore damaged gum tissues, reinforcing support for your natural teeth.
3. Bone grafting – is a surgical procedure that restores damaged bone tissues to preserve the jawbone.
4. Tissue-stimulating proteins – comprise a special gel that develops your tooth enamel and stimulates the growth of healthy bone tissue.

Summary

The longer you go without seeking treatment for periodontitis, the slimmer the chances of salvaging your natural teeth. Further, making good lifestyle choices is paramount for preventing gum disease.