Gum Disease and Recession
Gum disease is identified by three progressive stages. The first level of periodontal disease is called gingivitis, followed by a second level called periodontitis. The third, final, and most serious stage of the disease is advanced periodontitis. Diagnosing and treating periodontal disease promptly will stymie and abate the progress.
Periodontal therapy refers to a range of surgical and non-surgical techniques available at Cherrydale Family Dental that are designed to address gum disease and gum recession, which will result as an infection or inflammation of the gums and can result in gum recession and even jawbone deterioration.
The entire staff at Cherrydale Family Dental is proud of our efforts in working with all family members, from infant to teenager to parents to grandparents. Patience is indeed a virtue in our quickly paced lives today. We enjoy watching each patient continue to return for regular preventative exams with a healthy smile. If you have any questions at all regarding possible gum disease and recession, simply call Cherrydale Family Dental at 703-991-4348. You can find us at 4399 Langston Boulevard, Arlington VA 22207.
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Types of Gum Disease
Gum disease is a progressive infection that can gradually increase in severity. If you develop periodontal disease do so in the following order:
- Gingivitis: The earliest stage of periodontitis, gingivitis typically develops due to bacterial plaque that builds up on your teeth that comes into contact with your gums. The signs of gingivitis are usually sensitive gums that are red, puffy, and bleed easily. Gingivitis can be stopped and reversed with a proper cleaning and improved oral health care at home. If it is not addressed quickly, it can escalate into a more severe form of periodontitis.
- Early Periodontitis: Early periodontitis is caused by the continued build-up of harmful bacterial plaque and now the next stage when gingivitis is left untreated. Early periodontitis is typically indicated by symptoms that are like gingivitis, just more severe. Your gums will feel painful and more sensitive, and the brushing and flossing now of your teeth can result in excessive bleeding. Unlike gingivitis, which can generally be addressed through a deep cleaning and improved self-care practices, early periodontitis will likely require more intensive interventions, such as deep scaling, root planing and even a laser gum treatment.
- Advanced Periodontitis: When bacteria, plaque, and toxins have developed to the point that gum tissue is being destroyed, you have developed advanced periodontitis. If you have progressed to this point then you have developed small pockets between your teeth and gums, which act as convenient breeding grounds for additional bacteria to grow. With these additional bacteria, these pockets continue to expand causing the gums to recede. If left untreated long enough, this recession will result in bone loss.
Proper Daily Oral Hygiene Can Prevent Gum Recession and Gum Recession
Gum disease can usually be avoided provided you practice good oral hygiene habits. Though certainly not a guarantee, if you adhere to the following best practices, you can either avoid or reduce your need for periodontal therapy:
- Brush twice daily (minimum) and practice proper brushing technique. In addition to brushing two minutes each time regularly, it is also important to brush effectively. Our staff at Cherrydale Family Dental will answer any questions you may have about proper brushing techniques. This simple task removes plaque every single day preventing the damaging buildups.
- Floss daily. If you are someone who tends to avoid flossing, you may want to consider flossing alternatives, such as interdental brushes or floss picks. This effort removes plaque from those hard to reach areas between your teeth.
- Be mindful of your diet. Another way you can prevent dental problems from developing is to avoid foods that are sugary or high in starch. If you enjoy soda or sugary beverages, try to use a straw to limit the exposure of the sugar to your teeth. It is also beneficial to swish your mouth with water following meals to dislodge food remnants.
- Schedule regular dental exams. Unchecked dental problems can result in additional issues and the progression of decay, which is why it is strongly suggested to visit us for preventative exams every six months. With us providing a deep cleaning of your teeth and diagnosing any potential issues before they progress, these regular checkups are critical to maintaining your oral health.
Quality Dental Care for ALL Family Members
At Cherrydale Family Dental, 4399 Langston Boulevard, Arlington VA 22207, we work 24/7 to earn your trust. We see more than just your teeth or gums and pretty smile when you enter our office. We see a patient that can become a friend. We want to contribute in every way possible to helping you maintain good oral health to the best of your ability. We always look forward to discussing what is best for you and your smile. Please contact us at 703-243-8288 to discuss the benefits for you when it comes to evaluating any potential gum disease and gum recession and how we can abate it and improve your quality of life.
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