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Gum disease or periodontitis, happens when bacterial growth builds up between the gums and teeth. In its early stage the gums inflame and become red. If left untreated, periodontal disease can eventually lead to tooth loss.

 

 

 

Some symptoms of gum disease are;

• Bad breath that won’t go away
• red or swollen gums
• tender or bleeding gums
• painful chewing, loose teeth
• sensitive teeth
• receding gums

There are also risk factors that can increase your chance of having periodontal disease. These risk factors include; pregnancy, smoking, diet and genetics.

Here are some tips to help you prevent gum disease:

Brush your teeth: Brush your teeth after every meal. Brushing your teeth removes bacteria and food trapped between your teeth and your gums.

Floss: Flossing helps remove food debris and plaque between teeth and the gum
Swish with mouthwash. Mouthwash helps remove bacterial plaque which causes gum disease.

In some cases periodontal disease does not respond to self-care and you might need scaling and root planing. A dentist or a dental hygienist, will perform scaling and root planing. After numbing your gums, your dentist will use an small instrument called a scalar or an ultrasonic cleaner, to remove plaque and tartar. Here in Atlantic dentists we specialize in preventative dentistry, assisting you with becoming a healthier person.
If you feel that you are at risk of having periodontal disease, please call the office of Drs. Costello and Drake, your Daytona and Ormond Beach dentists.