Understanding the Signs of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a common condition found in over half of adult Americans. Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is an infection in the gum. Often, when caught during the early stages, known as gingivitis, the condition is easily treatable and reversible. However, most people are unware of the symptoms of early gum disease. As a result, the condition goes untreated, which causes serious damage to oral health and can produce complications with overall health. As your dentist in Accra, we want to you to be aware of the signs of gum disease to seek prompt treatment.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is caused by an infection in the gum tissue. When proper oral hygiene is not maintained, plaque and tarter begin to accumulate around the gum line. Bacteria develops in the accumulations, leading to an infection. The bacteria responsible for the infection not only damages oral health, but is directly linked to causing serious health complications, including heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and respiratory infections.

What are the Signs of Gum Disease?

The early stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis, which is easily treatable and reversible with prompt treatment. Among the most common symptom of gum disease are bleeding gums. However, with many people having bleeding gums and many thinking it is normal, the infection often goes untreated.

In addition to bleeding gum, the gums can also become inflamed and red. It is not uncommon to develop pain near the teeth. As the infection progresses, the gum line will start to recede. As the infection spreads further into the tissue, the teeth may begin to become loose. Once the infection has accelerated to this point, advanced gum disease is now present. If not treated, the teeth may begin to fall out. You may even start having complications with your overall health as well.

Who Can Get Gum Disease?

Anyone can get gum disease, however, there are certain risk factors that increase the likeliness you will develop the infection. Those who have poor oral hygiene are more likely to develop the infection. If you have alignment issues that make the teeth more difficult to clean, you have an increased risk for gum disease. In addition, certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking, can also lead to gum disease.

There are several other factors that increase your risk for the infection, such as medical conditions, medications, and genetics. In addition, those who grind and clench their teeth and those who are under a significant amount of stress are more prone to the infection.

How is Gum Disease Treated?

If you have symptoms of gum disease, you need to schedule a dental appointment right away. We will thoroughly clean the teeth using specialized procedures to remove plaque and tarter accumulations. In addition, we will treat the damaged areas while working to get the infection under control.

If you are in need of periodontal therapy, contact Bethel Dental today. We will restore the health of your smile with periodontal therapy and prevention.