Recognizing the signs of gum disease with the help of your dentist in Indianapolis, IN

The seriousness of gum disease is something that more and more people are beginning to understand. This progressive condition can cause bad breath, affect the beauty of the smile, and even threaten your general health. The dental team at Washington Street Dentistry work vigilantly to prevent the onset of gum disease by providing preventative care. A large part of prevention also lies in the daily habits kept by each individual.

When daily, effective oral hygiene is lacking, the risk of gum disease increases significantly. Working as a team with your dentist, you gain a great deal of power over the oral bacteria that cause gum disease and have a higher likelihood of enjoying a healthy, beautiful smile for life. In addition to providing professional cleanings and evaluations, your dentist is able to detect the earliest signs of gum disease, which can be difficult to recognize with the naked eye.

Gum disease is sometimes referred to as “silent.” This is because early signs are almost undetectable except to your dentist. When gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, develops, gum tissue may become slightly red and inflamed. On occasion, the gums may bleed slightly when you brush or floss. Many people think that their brushing or flossing is what caused bleeding. In truth, the gums should not bleed, even if you brush aggressively. If you notice blood during oral hygiene activities, contact your dentist for a professional examination.

Without treatment, the infection of gum disease will continue to affect the gums, and eventually the bone. Gum recession is a sign of progression, signaling that bacteria have collected in the pockets between the gums and the teeth. In this position, bacteria have more access to bone tissue, where significant damage can be done. If not treated at this point, gum disease can lead to bone loss and loose teeth, or even the loss of teeth. Your dentist may offer several treatment options to repair damage, with gum surgery or tooth replacement becoming more necessary as the disease progresses.

The early detection of gum disease is important for several reasons. Early treatment of gum disease can lead to the reversal of damage. A return to optimal oral health, free of gum disease, is possible only with early treatment, however.

We can help you guard your health through the early detection of gum disease. Contact Washington Street Dentistry for your check-up today.

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