Gum treatment in Miami, Florida

You are not standing alone; nearly half of all adults over age 30 in the U.S. have periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. Gingivitis, where your gums become red, swollen and inflamed is the first stage of periodontal disease. With an earnest approach to an oral health regimen, including brushing, flossing and regular dentist visits, gingivitis can be reversed. Dentists at Dental Associates of Kendall are eager to assist in putting you on the road to a healthy smile.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

When bacteria in plaque and tartar infiltrate your gum line and soft tissue begins to erode, the clock starts ticking on periodontal disease going from bad to worse. Factors contributing to this include:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Crowded or overlapping teeth
• Unhealthy eating habits
• Smoking and use of other tobacco products
• Growing older
• Family history
• Hormonal changes caused by pregnancy or menopause
• Extreme stress
• Systemic diseases such as diabetes or Crohn’s

What Are Common Signs of Periodontal Disease?

If you are diagnosed with gum disease, you need to be vigilant in recognizing symptoms that demonstrate the disease is progressing. Those include, gums continue to bleed, gum tissue recedes, bad breath, a persistent aftertaste, painful when chewing and pus between your teeth and gums. Acting quickly, including contacting our Dental Associates of Kendall at (305) 459-3204 for an appointment, will minimize damage to your teeth and gums.

What Are the Types of Gum Disease?

Remain cognizant of signs of gingivitis and reverse it with vigorous oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist. Doing nothing may lead to a more chronic illness – periodontitis -- a serious gum disease that could result in tooth loss or affect your overall health.

Periodontitis causes gums to separate from your teeth, forming “pockets” that fill with tartar, plaque and bacteria. These infections can bring about a loss of tissue and bone could cause your teeth to become loose in their sockets. Dental organizations cite gum disease as the No. 1 reason for tooth loss in adults.

How is Periodontal Disease Treated?

Professional teeth cleanings, which polish teeth above the gum line, are helpful in reversing gingivitis. If you suffer a more serious periodontal disease, bacteria below the gum line must be treated aggressively. Techniques used to treat periodontitis include scaling and planing, which remove infection from your periodontal pockets and smoothing the tooth root eliminates bacteria. You also may be prescribed an antibiotic or a medicinal rinse for your mouth.

Don’t let your smile pay the price if you have a gum disease. Increased periodontal maintenance also may be needed to keep it in check. Also, to shore up compromised teeth, our periodontist may suggest you get bone or tissue grafts or apply a tissue-stimulating protein to prompt growth of bone and gums. In extreme cases, surgery may be called for.

What Can I Do at Home to Prevent Gum Disease?

Our dental professionals want you to live your life with a healthy smile. Our dental staff at Dental Associates of Kendall is on hand to offer assistance. Call us at (305) 459-3204 to make an appointment.