Gum Disease Treatment in Baltimore

In the U.S., an estimated three out of four adults have some level of gum disease, and many don’t realize it. Gum disease is the inflammation and infection of the gums and the surrounding tissue. Generally caused by bacterial plaque, it is the biggest cause of adult tooth loss.

How Gum Disease Develops

Plaque-a thin, colorless film-is caused by bacteria in your mouth and it develops on your teeth. Left untreated, bacterial plaque will harden into the rough, porous mineral buildup called tartar. Tartar, usually yellow or brown in color, forms at and underneath the gum line. Tartar excretes the toxins that cause gum inflammation, resulting in the development of periodontal pockets that hold even more toxins and bacteria. This condition can lead to the loosening of the teeth, or even make teeth fall out. As the condition worsens, the accumulated toxins and bacteria move deeper into the jaw to destroy the bone that holds your teeth in place.

What to Look For

Stopping the progression of gum disease before it escalates can save patients added time, discomfort, and expense. Signs of gum disease can include:

Red, inflamed gums
Bleeding while brushing or flossing
Receding gums
Loose or separating teeth
Presence of pus between the gum and tooth
Chronic halitosis

A Bigger Problem

Gum disease can wreak havoc on your mouth, but it can also cause other health concerns. Research has linked gum disease to problems such as heart disease, osteoporosis, stroke, and complications with diabetes. Because the symptoms are initially mild, many people don’t realize they have gum disease, which can allow the condition to worsen. You may have an increased risk for gum disease if you smoke, have diabetes, take certain medications, endure excessive stress, or don’t eat properly.

Treating Gum Disease

Periodontics is the area of dentistry that focuses on gum disease treatment. If caught in the early stages, your dentist can reverse gum disease. To begin, the dentist will scale the teeth to remove plaque and calculus, and plane the roots to smooth them. The doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to clear up any infection or inflammation. At home brushing and flossing regularly can be preventive measures against gum disease.