Edmonton Emergency Dentists
Gum Disease
Our gums are the supporting structures of our mouths; they’re what hold our teeth in place and deliver necessary nutrients. Even if your teeth are healthy, gum disease has serious ramifications for your oral health.
Periodontal disease affects the gum tissue and bones in your mouth. If the health of your gums is compromised, it puts you at a higher risk of developing periodontal disease.
At Edmonton Emergency Dental, our dentists are equipped for gum disease treatment. Our services help you prevent the development of gum disease and treat the side effects, which often cause pain and discomfort.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Do you have a severe toothache and concerned that you have gum disease? Here are a few of the most common symptoms of periodontal disease:
Receding gums
Are more of your teeth showing than you remember? If you examine them closely, you may notice that more of the roots are exposed. The gum line may appear uneven in spots where the gum is recessed.
A dentist can measure your gums to determine the extent of the recession.
Loose teeth
The health of your gums affects the stability of your teeth. If the gum tissue weakens, you may suffer loose teeth. Your gums may also become tender and irritated. If gum disease reaches the advanced stage known as periodontitis, the tooth may fall out or need a tooth extraction.
Sensitivity
Have you noticed that the soft tissue in your mouth is particularly sensitive to extreme temperatures? Some people have sensitive teeth, but the pain may be more specific to your gums.
Swollen or bleeding gums
After brushing or flossing your teeth, you might notice that your gums are bleeding. This is a sign that the tissue is becoming inflamed.
persistent Bad breath
Gingivitis, one of the early stages of gum disease, is characterized by persistent bad breath. Another sign is that no matter how many times you brush your teeth or tongue, the smell persists.
Health Risks of Gum Disease
Your oral health is linked to your overall health. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to complications other than dental issues.
Gum disease has been linked to other health conditions like diabetes, heart issues, stroke, and premature birth for pregnant women. One study linked the presence of the oral bacteria that causes gum disease to the development of Alzheimer’s.
Risk Factors for Gum Disease
Are you susceptible to periodontal disease? The following conditions may put you at a higher risk:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Smoking/drinking
- Age
- Family history
- Bruxism (teeth grinding)
Gum Disease Treatment in edmonton
If you’re experiencing issues with the health of your gums, dental interventions can help. Here are a few gum disease treatment options:
Healthy brushing and flossing habits
Regular oral care can prevent gum disease from getting worse as well as slow its development. Remember to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and apply light pressure while brushing. As always, we suggest brushing twice a day and flossing once a day.
Bone and gum grafting
A bone graft can replace the lost tissue that secures teeth in your mouth.
During a gum grafting procedure, the tissue is taken from the palate (the roof of the mouth) and grafted on top of the receding gums. It encourages the regrowth of new, healthy gum tissue.
Antibiotics
If the health of your gums is compromised, the tissue may be vulnerable to infections. Periodontal disease may lead to a bacterial infection, which can be treated using antibiotics like amoxicillin or metronidazole.
Other Types of Gum Issues
The soft tissue in your mouth is particularly susceptible to damage and decay. Here are a few other dental issues that may arise:
Items lodged in the gum tissue
Sometimes, pieces of food can get caught in our gums. This can cause pain and may lead to an infection. You may be able to remove it on your own, but by attempting to do so, you risk pushing the item in further.
Gum recession
In some cases, gum recession isn’t caused by periodontal disease or infection. They can also result from brushing your teeth too aggressively. The soft tissue in your mouth is sensitive to impact—if you repeatedly use too much pressure when you brush, it may cause the gums to recede.
If you’ve had braces in the past, you may also deal with receding gum tissues. This occurs when the braces move your teeth too quickly or aggressively.
Book Your Appointment Today
Healthy teeth start with healthy gums. Our dentists know how imperative it is to manage gum disease. When you call our dental clinic, we’ll assess your gums and symptoms to detect any issues.
Your oral health directly affects your daily comfort levels. You shouldn’t have to live in pain. If you’ve noticed any signs of gum disease or infection, reach out to an emergency dentist in Edmonton today.