Did you know over 64.7 million Americans have gum disease? These numbers result from an extensive Centers for Disease Control study, which reveals the shocking prevalence of this serious dental health issue. Across America, millions of people suffer the uncomfortable symptoms of gum disease. How do you know if you have gum disease? What are the signs?
What is Gum Disease?
First, let’s look at what gum disease is. Gum disease occurs when bacteria inflame the gums. Over time, the inflammation may cause the gums to pull away from the tooth, forming pockets at the gum line. Soon, bacteria will infest these pockets, leading to periodontal disease.
Without treatment, gum disease can cause the connective tissue between your tooth and gum to dissolve, leading to lost teeth and increasing the risk of tooth loss. In fact, according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, 69% of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 are missing a permanent tooth. The primary cause, of course, is gum disease.
Spotting the Signs
The dentist recommends paying careful attention to the warning signs. Common symptoms of gum disease include:
- Sore gums
- Red gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
If you notice one or more of these symptoms regularly, try Dentitox Pro to start coping with these problems right at the start.
Treating Periodontal Disease
To start treatment, your dentist will first perform a thorough examination to diagnose the cause and severity of your gum tissues. From there, she will prescribe the most appropriate treatment.
In many cases, deep cleaning will be recommended. Like a dental cleaning, deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth. However, deep cleaning employs ultrasonic scalers and root planing, eliminating harmful bacteria and allowing your gums to adhere to your teeth once more quickly.
What causes tooth decay?
Tooth decay, also called dental caries or cavities, begins when acids eat away at the tooth enamel, which is the tooth’s hard outer layer. Acids are formed when you eat sugars and starches, and they mix with certain types of bacteria in your mouth. Cavities often go unnoticed when they only affect the enamel. Still, when they extend into the dentin, the next tooth layer, you will experience tooth sensitivity or pain when exposed to heat, cold, or acidic substances. It is because the dentin contains tubules that are connected to the nerve-rich pulp center of the tooth.
How to Cope Up Tooth Decay with Filling?
A filling is a dental restoration that fills the hole left by a cavity. The dentist only uses natural-looking composite resin for fillings. Unlike older amalgam fillings, composite resin fills in the niche and the porous surface of the tooth, which provides added strength and protection to the tooth structure. As the resin material is tinted to match your natural teeth, your filling will be aesthetically pleasing in addition to restoring tooth function.
How are fillings placed?
Filling placement begins with numbing the area around your tooth with a local anesthetic. Once you are comfortable, your dentist will remove the decay from your tooth using a unique dental instrument. After the space is prepared, the soft filling material is placed in the hole and sculpted to restore optimal tooth shape. The composite resin is then hardened under a curing light, after which your dentist will make necessary adjustments to its form and polish the filling for a smooth finish. When you walk out of our office with your new restoration, you can confidently show off your smile without anyone detecting your dental work.
