During a regular checkup, Dr. Cappy Sinclair will check for signs of gingivitis and gum disease. Dr. Sinclair, a dentist in Virginia Beach, VA, stresses the importance of keeping your gums healthy for good dental and overall health. Your gums support your teeth and play a big role in your well-being. Taking care of your gums means brushing and flossing every day and seeing Dr. Sinclair regularly for professional dental cleanings and exams.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissue around your teeth. Many people don’t realize they have it because it can be a silent disease. It happens when plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria, builds up on your teeth from poor dental care.
If left untreated, this infection can damage your teeth, gums, and jaw. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults across America.
Stages of Gum Disease
Gum disease comes in different stages, from mild swelling to serious infections that can lead to losing teeth. Knowing these stages helps you keep your mouth healthy and avoid bigger problems. If you spot the signs of gum disease early, you can stop it from getting worse and protect your overall health.
- Gingivitis: If you don’t brush or floss well, plaque builds up on your teeth, leading to inflamed gums. More frequent cleanings can help if you have recurring gingivitis.
- Periodontitis: If gingivitis isn’t treated, it becomes periodontitis. At this point, the infection damages the bone and soft tissue that support your teeth. You’ll need immediate treatment to stop further damage.
- Advanced Periodontitis: At this stage, there is major loss of the fibers, tissue, and bone that hold your teeth in place. Teeth may loosen, shift, or fall out. Immediate treatment is necessary to save as many teeth as possible.
Signs of Gum Disease
Catching gum disease early is key to stopping harm to your gums and teeth. Here are the signs and symptoms of gum disease to look out for:
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Receding gum line
- Constant bad breath
- Sores or pus coming from between your teeth
- Changes in your bite
- Loose teeth
- Dentures that no longer fit
- Gum Pain
Treatment For Gum Disease
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to make an appointment right away. Treating gum disease early can prevent tooth loss and other serious issues. At our office, we use the WaterLase dental laser, which is great for precise gum treatments. The laser only targets infected areas and sterilizes them as it works.
Laser dentistry is a great option for treating gum disease. It’s fast, with quicker healing times. There’s little bleeding, no cutting, and most patients don’t even need numbing. The results are immediate, and recovery is easier.
Schedule An Appointment
Dr. Sinclair treats gum disease in Chesapeake, VA, and the surrounding areas. If you think you might have gum disease, give us a call or schedule an appointment online.