The Dangers of Gum Disease

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The Dangers of Gum Disease

Gum Disease ChartGum disease is just as much of a concern for dentists as tooth decay. In fact, it may be a more pressing concern for dental patients since it affects up to 50 percent of U.S. adults according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It’s important that you understand the dangers of gum disease so that you can take swift action, with the help of a dentist at Today’s Dentistry in Chicago, IL, to heal your gums and save your smile.

What Is Gum Disease?
The gums are soft pink tissues that cover the dense jawbone that keeps your teeth anchored in place. Plaque and tartar can form around the base of the gumline and cause an infection—the result is gum disease. There are three main stages of this oral condition: mild, moderate, and advanced gum disease (the latter is usually referred to as periodontitis).

The Dangers of Gum Disease
Like dental disease, gum disease can cause tooth loss when it isn’t treated quickly and thoroughly. The bad bacterium multiplies and eliminates good tissue. Gum disease can also cause the bone to deteriorate completely, and the infection can spread to other areas of the mouth if it isn’t stopped in a timely fashion. In some cases, untreated gum disease can also aggravate unrelated general health conditions, like cardiovascular issues. If you do not have the symptoms treated by a dentist and take on better hygiene habits, gum disease could have a significant effect on your oral and overall health.

Gum Disease Treatments
Your gums need immediate therapy, including an intense cleaning, when there are signs of disease. These are the most common treatments for gum disease or periodontitis that your Chicago, IL, dentist can offer:

- Scaling and root planing (a very deep cleaning around the gumline)
- Periodontal surgery (opening the soft gum tissue to completely remove diseased matter).
- Antibiotic therapy to control the infection.
- Gum grafting (to restore lost bone tissue).
- Cosmetic gum surgery (to restore gum tissue around the teeth).

Help for Your Smile
It’s possible to save your smile from the effects of gum disease before it leads to tooth loss or a potentially damaging infection. Call (773) 334-1801 today to schedule a dentist appointment with Dr. Mark Gamalinda at Today’s Dentistry in Chicago, IL.