Signs of Gum Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore

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Gum disease is a challenge faced by a large number of Americans. The CDC estimates that four out of every 10 Americans has at least some type of gum disease. Whether you’re suffering from gingivitis or periodontitis, gum disease is not a problem you should ignore. Dr. Mellas, your Scottsdale periodontist, wants you to know common signs of gum disease so you can seek treatment early.

Red or Swollen Gums

One of the first signs most people experience when they develop gum disease is red or swollen gums. While irritations can occur that inflame the gum tissue temporarily, if you seem to have a chronic issue, then it’s time to get a checkup from your local dentist. If your dentist confirms gum disease, then schedule an appointment with a periodontist for specialty care to treat the disease before it progresses.

Sensitive or Loose Teeth

You may not connect tooth sensitivity or loose teeth to your gums, but gum disease can cause irritation to the teeth. The inflamed gum tissue can irritate the teeth, and the tartar that builds up on the teeth when you have gum disease can weaken them or contribute to decay. Any time you have sensitive or loose teeth, you should see the dentist but know that gum disease could be an underlying cause.

Bleeding Gums

Do your gums frequently bleed when you eat or floss? If you’re experiencing this, you may also be suffering from gum disease. The irritation from tartar and bacteria causes inflammation, and inflamed tissue can bleed when irritated. Periodontitis treatment in Scottsdale can bring you relief.

Receding Gums

If you notice that your gums are pulling away from your teeth, or if your dentist mentioned “receding gumline” at your next visit, gum disease may be at play. When the gum tissue gets inflamed, it can start to pull away from the teeth, leaving the sensitive lower areas of the teeth exposed. This process also weakens the strength of your teeth.

If you’re noticing any of these concerns, don’t delay. Talk to your dentist about gum disease. If you know you have gum disease, make an appointment with Dr. Mellas today for periodontitis treatment to start healing your mouth before the periodontal disease progresses.

Can Gum Disease be Reversed?

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Gum disease is one of the most serious dental concerns because it nearly always leads to permanent tooth loss. No one wants to lose their permanent teeth. It not only looks bad, but it negatively impacts the function and health of the entire mouth. If you believe you may have gum disease, you’ll want to know if it can be reversed. Here are some facts to help you to understand the serious implications. But in the meantime, you should see yourScottsdale, AZ, periodontist as soon as possible for treatment.

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a disease that affects the soft tissue, the gums. Essentially, it’s an infection of the gums. Symptoms include inflamed gums, loose teeth, and white pus. The thing to know about gum disease is that it progresses slowly, over time. As such, there is ample time to halt its progression. Doing so could just save your permanent teeth. Waiting until the gum disease progresses to the final stages almost always results in the loss of permanent teeth.

Gum Disease is Treatable

Thankfully, gum disease is treatable, and a periodontist is an expert in this kind of service. Your periodontist has an array of available treatments for gum disease. At home, you should follow your periodontist’s instructions to the letter for optimal outcomes.

Can Gum Disease be Reversed?

The question of whether gum disease can be reversed depends a lot on the individual, their habits, lifestyle choices, when they seek treatment, and how closely they adhere to the periodontist’s instructions. Treatment may include prescription medication such as antibiotics, prescription-strength mouthwashes, surgical procedures, digital imaging, and more. It’s important to note that gum disease can’t be reversed with just one visit. It came on slowly, and reversing the effects will take time, possibly several months. Any permanent damage, of course, such as the loss of natural teeth, can’t be reversed, but there are treatments for that, such as dental implants, bridges, and more.

If you suspect that you may be developinggum disease in Scottsdale, AZ, book an appointment with your periodontist as soon as possible. The sooner the gum disease is diagnosed and halted in its tracks, the better the outcome. Contact us today to learn more.

The Most Common Causes of Gum Disease

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Is it possible you might have gum disease? How would you know? If you would like to know for sure if you have gum disease, schedule an appointment with your dentist in Scottsdale, AZ. But until then, let’s go over the signs of gum disease so you know what to look for. Then we’ll talk about what causes it.

Signs of Gum Disease

Here are the signs of gum disease.

If you notice that your gums are inflamed, swollen, puffy, or bleeding, you probably have some stage of gum disease.

The Most Common Causes of Gum Disease

If you want to prevent gum disease, consider the following causes.

  • Poor Oral Hygiene

If you don’t floss your teeth once a day and brush your teeth twice a day, this could result in gum disease. Brushing and flossing are the easiest ways to prevent gum disease.

  • Plaque Buildup

Plaque is a sticky, thick film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth. However, brushing and flossing daily will help prevent plaque from building up on your teeth.

  • Smoking and Chewing Tobacco

We understand how difficult it can be to kick the nicotine habit. But did you know smoking and chewing tobacco will interfere with the normal functioning of your gums? This makes your mouth more susceptible to infections, gum disease, and tooth loss. Talk with your doctor about providing you with tools to help you quit tobacco products for good.

  • Crooked Teeth

If your teeth are crooked, causing them to become crowded or overlap, this could lead to gum disease. This is because the misalignments create spaces, making it easier for plaque to build up. If your teeth are severely crooked or you have missing teeth, talk with your dentist about your options. Dental implants in Scottsdale, AZ are a great tooth replacement option and they look and feel like your natural teeth.

  • Nutritional Deficiencies

If you don’t get enough daily vitamin C, it could lead to gum disease. You can correct this by making sure you are getting enough vitamin C every day.

  • Prescription Medications

Many prescriptions lead to reduced saliva production and flow. This results in dry mouth. And dry mouth allows bacteria to spread more easily, resulting in gum disease.

Do You Need a Dentist in Scottsdale, AZ?

If you have signs of gum disease, please Contact Dr. Pete Mellas to schedule an appointment. Dr. Mellas earned his Doctorate of Dental Medicine Degree in 1993 and has been practicing in Scottsdale, AZ for more than 20 years. Our offices are comfortable and relaxing, and we promise to treat you with all the care and respect you deserve.

lady getting exam

Why Do My Gums Have Pus?

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If you notice a discharge of pus from your gums, it can be unsettling and cause for concern. Pus is a sign of infection, and in the context of oral health, it may point to a condition known as gum disease or periodontal disease, which affects the gums and surrounding tissues and needs to be treated by a periodontist in Scottsdale, AZ.

Understanding Gum Disease and Its Causes

Gum disease results from bacteria in plaque, a sticky film that accumulates on your teeth. When plaque is not consistently removed through brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. A buildup of tartar can cause inflammation and infection in the gums.

Common Symptoms of Gum Disease

One of the most frequent signs of gum disease is bleeding gums, which may occur while brushing or flossing, or may happen spontaneously. Other symptoms include swollen or red gums, persistent bad breath, and receding gums.

Progression and Consequences of Untreated Gum Disease

If gum disease is not addressed, it can develop into more severe stages. In advanced cases, you may experience discomfort, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. This happens because gum disease not only affects the gums but can also damage the bones and tissues supporting your teeth.

The Significance of Pus in Gums

The appearance of pus in the gums indicates that the infection has advanced. Pus is a thick, yellowish or greenish substance that can be painful and may result in a foul taste in your mouth. If you observe pus coming from your gums, it is vital to consult your periodontist promptly.

Gum Disease Treatment Options

Treatment for gum disease depends on the severity of the condition. In milder cases, enhancing oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, may be sufficient. In more advanced situations, a deep cleaning procedure, known as scaling and root planing, may be required. Antibiotics might also be prescribed to fight the infection.

Maintaining optimal oral health is crucial for preventing gum disease. This involves routine dental check-ups and cleanings, daily brushing and flossing, and abstaining from tobacco products. If you detect any symptoms of gum disease in Scottsdale, AZ, like bleeding or pus, it’s essential not to ignore them. Schedule an appointment with us now.