Who Needs Periodontal Treatment?
Worried you may need ? Your next step is to book an appointment with one of our dentists in Grandville, MI. From there, they’ll be able to evaluate your smile to determine if you could benefit from gum disease treatment. At 44 West, we offer a variety of treatment options, including scaling and root planing, to help you achieve your best smile yet.
In the meantime, let’s learn more about the signs, risk factors, and candidates for periodontal disease treatment.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It’s typically caused by poor oral hygiene habits, leading to plaque buildup on the teeth. If not treated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems.
Signs You Might Need Periodontal Treatment
Recognizing the is the first step toward seeking treatment.
Here are some common symptoms.
Bleeding Gums: If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, it could be an early sign of periodontal disease.
Swollen or Red Gums: Healthy gums should be firm and pink. Swollen, red, or tender gums indicate an issue.
Persistent Bad Breath: Bad breath that doesn’t go away, even after brushing, can be a sign of gum disease.
Receding Gums: If your gums are pulling away from your teeth, creating pockets, you may have periodontal disease.
Loose Teeth: This is a more advanced symptom where the teeth may become loose due to the deterioration of the gum and bone structure.
Risk Factors for Periodontal Disease
Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing periodontal disease. Knowing these can help you take the below preventive measures.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up and harden into tartar.
Smoking: Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for gum disease.
Genetics: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to gum disease.
Hormonal Changes: Changes during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause can increase gum sensitivity and susceptibility to disease.
Medical Conditions: Diseases like diabetes can impact your gum health, making you more prone to infections.
Medications: Certain medications can cause dry mouth. This increases your risk of gum disease.
Who Should Seek Periodontal Treatment?
Periodontal treatment is essential for anyone showing signs of gum disease. However, certain individuals should be more vigilant.
Adults Over 30: Periodontal disease is more common in adults over the age of 30.
Smokers: If you smoke, regular dental check-ups and periodontal evaluations are crucial.
People with Diabetes: Managing blood sugar levels is essential, and so is maintaining gum health.
Pregnant Women: Pregnancy gingivitis is a common condition. Professional dental care can prevent it from progressing.
Family History: If periodontal disease runs in your family, you should be extra cautious.
Chronic Illness Sufferers: Conditions like heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis have been linked to gum disease, necessitating regular periodontal care.
The Importance of Early Detection and Treatment
Early detection of periodontal disease can prevent severe complications. Regular dental visits allow our dentists to catch early signs and provide appropriate treatment.
Treatments can range from non-surgical procedures like scaling and root planing to surgical interventions for more advanced cases.
Book a Periodontal Consultation
Our , are accepting new patients and would be more than happy to help you explore your treatment options. To discover if you could benefit from periodontal care, please call 44 West Dental Professionals at (616) 530-2200. You may also fill out our online contact form and a member of our team will reach out to you soon.