A Quick Guide to Periodontal Disease

Even though periodontal disease (or gum disease) is the second most common dental health issue, not many people realize that it’s also highly preventable with the right dental health care and maintenance. If fact, there is much about periodontal disease that many patients don’t know, even those who have to deal with its presence. Today, we take a quick crash course in the most important details of periodontal disease, including how best to protect your smile if it develops.

The Warning Signs

Gingivitis is the first and most minor stage of periodontal disease. Yet, even at such an early stage, the condition can lead to a number of signs and symptoms, including (but not limited to):

• Red, inflamed gums
• Occasionally bleeding gums
• Dark or discolored areas of your gum tissue
• Chronic bad breath (halitosis)
• Persistent sensitivity, especially around your teeth roots

The Consequences

The symptoms of periodontal disease grow worse the longer the condition is left untreated, and the consequences to your oral and overall health can be severe. For instance, severe periodontal disease is the number-one cause of adult tooth loss in the United States. It’s also one of the biggest risk factors in chronic inflammatory health conditions, like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and more.

The Solution

The most effective solution to periodontal disease is to prevent it. This requires consistently good hygiene at home and regular preventive dental care to successfully control gum disease-causing oral bacteria. If periodontal disease does develop, however, then the best solution is to have it diagnosed and treated by a periodontal expert as soon as possible. Early, specialized treatment can help you avoid the more serious consequences of gum disease, including tooth loss and poor overall health in the future.

Learn More About the Details of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease can lead to a host of complex dental issues, but preventing or treating the disease doesn’t have to be complicated. To learn how to protect your smile from periodontal disease, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kania by calling her periodontal office in Encinitas/San Diego, CA, at (760) 642-0711.