You know that you need to brush and floss every day in order to keep cavities at bay, but when was the last time that you stopped to evaluate your oral care routine? Are you doing enough protect your gums along with your teeth? Many people make the mistake of ignoring their gums, but doing so places the health of the entire mouth at risk. Unhealthy gums are far more likely to develop periodontitis, a serious infection that damages the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. Here’s everything you should know about the signs and symptoms of periodontitis.
Do You Have Periodontitis?
If your dentist has ever mentioned that you have gingivitis, then you are one step away from periodontitis. Gingivitis is a minor form of gum inflammation that develops when plaque accumulates on the surface of the tooth and instigates the gums to become red and inflamed. If your teeth bleed when you brush, you may have gingivitis. Fortunately, this condition doesn’t cause lasting damage and can be easily treated and eliminated with better oral care habits.
Periodontitis forms when gingivitis is not treated. The gums and bone actually pull away from the teeth, which creates large pockets that collect debris and bacteria. As plaque spreads below the gum line, bone and connective tissue start to disintegrate, and teeth come loose or even fall out. If you have inflamed and bright red gums, pus between the teeth and gums, a metallic taste in your mouth, or loose teeth, you most likely have periodontitis.
The Urgency of Preventing and Treating Periodontitis
The most obvious reason to maintain thorough oral care and seek treatment for periodontitis is to preserve the structure, function, and appearance of your teeth. Once periodontitis causes damage to your mouth, you could find yourself needing dentures or implants to have a full smile again. However, periodontitis also threatens your overall health by putting you at increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and other health problems.
Advanced Dental Arts, Wesley Chapel’s leading prosthodontics practice, offers the professional and effective treatments you need to prevent and treat periodontitis. If periodontitis has already taken its toll on your mouth, Dr. Kulangara can provide full mouth rehabilitation in order to help you regain a beautiful smile. Call (813) 534-4425 to make your first appointment at Advanced Dental Arts today.