Periodontitis, or gum disease, is a common but very damaging oral health issue. When patients have gum disease, they experience gum pain, inflammation, irritation, and bleeding. Over time, as harmful bacteria irritate the gum tissue, they can wear down the soft tissues, leading to gum recession and loose teeth. If you have noticed changes in your gum health but are unsure if it’s gum disease, we can help. If you have questions, even if you are unsure if you have gum disease, we can answer them for you! Here we will answer common questions about periodontitis and explain more about how we treat gum disease in our Fayetteville, AR, dental office.
Answering Your Gum Disease Questions in Fayetteville, AR
Some of the most common questions patients have about gum disease may include:
What are the stages of gum disease?
Before gum disease takes form, patients will experience gingivitis. Also known as gum inflammation, gingivitis is marked by irritated gum tissue. When gum disease develops, it occurs in these stages:
- Initial Periodontitis: Patients typically experience long-term inflammation in the initial stages of gum disease. They will also notice that their gums bleed when they brush their teeth.
- Moderate Periodontitis: As gum disease progresses, patients will begin to feel gum pain and sensitivity. Patients will experience increased gum tissue and bone loss.
- Severe Periodontitis: In the most severe stages, patients are at risk of losing one or more of their permanent teeth. As the gums recede, teeth lose their support structure and will feel loose or fall out.
Thorough at-home care, dental cleanings, and regenerative dental procedures can help prevent or manage gum disease throughout these stages.
Why do my gums bleed even if I brush my teeth?
If you brush twice a day but still experience bleeding gums, you may need to add flossing to your routine. Some patients may overlook flossing, but flossing between your teeth before brushing removes food debris and helps clean harmful bacteria from the gums.
Can I lose my teeth if I have severe gum disease?
Ultimately, if you do not receive care before your gum disease symptoms worsen, you can lose your teeth. Patients with severe gum disease can experience gum recession, loose teeth, and eventually permanent tooth loss. Many patients with severe gum disease will require oral surgery to help renew gum tissue and prevent loose and missing teeth.
What are gum disease risk factors?
There are multiple risk factors that can increase your chance of developing gum problems like periodontitis:
- Smoking and Tobacco Use
- Poor Nutrition
- Diabetes
- Poor Oral Hygiene
If you have any of these risk factors, it’s best to visit our office. We can create a custom treatment plan to target any areas of the smile that require attention and treat emerging concerns.
Let our team know if you have any more questions about gum disease or your specific symptoms. They will be glad to help you. Call Greenway Dental Care for treatment at (479) 217-3178 or schedule your next dental visit online.