Gum disease is a serious condition that can cause inflammation, pain, and even tooth loss. Scientific studies have shown the link between untreated gum disease and serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Fortunately, gum disease is preventable and treatable if caught early. That is why dental exams and cleanings are so important. And since it is Gum Disease Awareness month, understanding its causes and symptoms is the first step.
Knowledge is power, and understanding the causes and symptoms of gum disease is essential in preventing and treating this serious condition. At Yerba Buena Dentistry, our team of experienced dentists, Dr. Jiahua Zhu, Dr. Semi Lim, Dr. Varghah Lotfi, and Dr. Amrit K. Sethi, strive to provide the best care possible to our patients with gum disease treatment in San Francisco.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. When plaque is not removed, it can harden and cause inflammation of the gums. Other causes of gum disease include poor oral hygiene, smoking, medications, and genetics.
What are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
The most common symptom of gum disease is red, swollen, and tender gums. Other symptoms include bleeding when brushing or flossing, receding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth. These symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and it is essential to see a dentist if any of these symptoms appear.
Prevention
At Yerba Buena Dentistry, we understand that preventing gum disease is the best way to ensure a healthy mouth. Our team of experienced dentists provides comprehensive preventive care and encourages patients to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing and flossing daily, using an antibacterial mouthwash, and getting regular dental cleanings and check-ups.
We also understand the importance of early detection and treatment of gum disease. If gum disease is detected early, our team of experienced dentists can provide treatment to reduce inflammation and stop the progression of the disease. Treatment options may include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), antibiotics, and gum surgery.
Gum Disease Treatments
The first step in treating advanced gum disease is removing the plaque and bacteria causing the infection. We typically treat this with a deep cleaning or scaling, which involves scraping away the plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. This cleaning is typically followed by root planing, which smoothes out the rough surfaces of the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from accumulating in the future.
In some cases, a combination of scaling and root planing may not be enough to treat advanced gum disease fully. In these cases, a doctor may recommend a surgical procedure. One of the most commonly used surgical treatments for advanced gum disease is flap surgery, which involves lifting the gums away from the teeth to allow your dentist to access and remove the infected tissue. This treatment may be followed by bone or tissue grafts to help restore the natural structure and support of the gums.
Dental Exams and Cleanings in San Francisco, California
At Yerba Buena Dentistry, we strive to provide the best care possible to our patients. Our team of experienced dentists is dedicated to educating patients about the causes and symptoms of gum disease and providing comprehensive preventive care to help keep their mouths healthy. Knowledge is power, and we are committed to helping our patients take control of their oral health. If it has been a while since your last dental exam or cleaning in San Francisco, schedule an appointment today.
