Dentist in Kingston, PA Treating Gum Disease and Educating Patients on The Dangers When Left Untreated
Dr. Stephen Lawrence and his team at Lawrence Dental Group in Kingston, PA, understand the importance of not only detecting and treating gum disease but doing so at the earliest possible stages. When left untreated, gum disease can cause many long-term health issues and problems not associated with your oral health. Gum disease has been linked to overall health issues including heart disease. Treating gum disease early will help mitigate any health risks that may be present otherwise.
Gum disease, an inflammation of the gums, can progress to a point where tooth-supporting gum and bone tissue can begin to degenerate. Gum disease is triggered when plaque (a sticky and colorless film builds up on the teeth) is not removed through normal means, including regular brushing and professional cleanings. This plaque can get under the gum line and begin to cause an infection of the gums. This gum disease can, when left untreated, ultimately result in teeth becoming loose or even falling out. Let us look at the progressing stages of gum disease.
Gingivitis
The first stage of gum disease where gums become inflamed due to plaque accumulation at the gum line. When plaque is not removed from daily brushing habits, it will generate toxins, which irritate the gum tissue, leading to gingivitis. Symptoms of gingivitis include gums that bleed when you brush. It is easily reversible.
Periodontitis
When gingivitis is left unchecked, it will progress into periodontitis. At this point, tooth-supporting bone and fibers can begin to be irreversibly damaged. Pockets will start to form under the gumline, where food particles and plaque can form. At this point, professional dental cleaning and treatment will be necessary.
Advanced Periodontitis
This is the final stage. The tooth-supporting bone and fibers have been irreversibly damaged (or destroyed), and your teeth are beginning to loosen. Your bite is affected, and aggressive professional dental treatment is required before teeth start falling out, and other health issues begin presenting themselves.
As you can see, gum disease can be scary as it progresses. If you notice any signs of gum disease or need a professional dental exam or cleaning, make an appointment with Lawrence Dental Group today at (570) 852-2650.
