ĐẶT HẸN
Gum health plays a vital role in maintaining your overall oral well-being. At Platinum Dental Group, we specialize in diagnosing and treating gum diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, to ensure a healthier smile for years to come.
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What Are Gum Diseases?
Gum diseases refer to infections of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth, ranging from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis. These conditions are typically caused by persistent bacterial plaque and tartar buildup, which release toxins that destroy the gum and bone structure. If left untreated, this can lead to tooth instability and loss.
Gingivitis
As the mildest form of gum disease, gingivitis causes redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. While often painless, it’s a warning sign of underlying issues. Thankfully, gingivitis is reversible with professional care and consistent oral hygiene.
Periodontitis
If untreated, gingivitis may progress to periodontitis, a more severe condition that damages the gums, bone, and connective tissues. Periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to systemic health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and complications during pregnancy.
Comprehensive Gum Care at Platinum Dental Group
- Scaling and Root Planing
This is the first and foremost treatment step to thoroughly remove tartar and plaque from above and below the gum line. By eliminating bacteria and their toxins, this procedure promotes gum and tooth health.
In most cases, gingivitis and periodontal inflammation improve significantly after this treatment. For severe cases, our specialists monitor closely to prevent recurrence. If the condition persists, surgical periodontal treatment may be recommended.
- Surgical Periodontal Treatments
- Pocket Depth Reduction:
This procedure minimizes the depth of periodontal pockets, making it easier for patients to maintain oral hygiene at home. It also enhances the chance of preserving natural teeth. - Periodontal Tissue Regeneration:
Damaged periodontal tissues (including gum and bone) can be regenerated through bone grafts and gum grafts. This process prevents premature tooth loss caused by periodontal disease.
- Other Advanced Gum Treatments
- Aesthetic Gum Reshaping:
If you have a gummy smile or short teeth, gum contouring surgery can reshape your gums to create a balanced, confident smile. - Crown Lengthening Before Restoration:
In cases where the tooth structure is severely damaged below the gum line, restoration was previously impossible without tooth extraction. At Platinum Dental Group, we can now preserve your natural teeth through crown-lengthening procedures, allowing for effective restoration. - Gum Grafting:
Receding gums may result from aggressive brushing or gum disease, exposing the tooth roots and causing sensitivity and aesthetic concerns. Gum grafting can alleviate tooth sensitivity and restore the aesthetics of the gums. Grafts can be made using biological materials such as Alloderm or your own tissue from the palate.
Understanding Gum Diseases
Gum diseases are often silent, progressing unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Recognizing the early signs is key to maintaining not only your oral health but your overall well-being. Below are some common symptoms that could indicate gum disease and what they mean for your dental health:
1. Red, Swollen, and Tender Gums
Healthy gums are firm and pale pink. When gums become inflamed, they appear red, swollen, and may feel tender to the touch. This inflammation, often caused by plaque buildup, is an early sign of gingivitis.
2. Bleeding During Brushing or Flossing
Gums that bleed easily, even with gentle brushing or flossing, may indicate an underlying issue. While occasional bleeding might seem harmless, frequent occurrences suggest gingivitis or the onset of more severe gum problems.
3. Receding Gums
Do your teeth appear longer than they used to? Gum recession, where the gum tissue pulls back to expose more of the tooth or even the root, can be caused by aggressive brushing, gum disease, or other factors. This not only affects the aesthetics of your smile but also increases tooth sensitivity and the risk of decay.
4. Gaps Forming Between Teeth
As gum disease progresses, the supporting bone around the teeth deteriorates, causing teeth to shift. This creates noticeable gaps between teeth, making it difficult to clean thoroughly and exacerbating the problem.
5. Pus or Abscesses in the Mouth
The presence of pus or abscesses is a clear sign of infection. These occur when bacteria penetrate deep into the gums, causing pockets of pus to form. This stage often results in pain, swelling, and sometimes fever, requiring immediate professional care.
6. Persistent Bad Breath
Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, is more than an embarrassment—it can be a warning sign of gum disease. The odor is often caused by bacterial toxins and decaying food particles trapped in periodontal pockets.
7. Loose Teeth or Shifting Bite Alignment
As the structures supporting the teeth weaken due to advanced gum disease, teeth can become loose or shift. You might notice that your bite feels different, or chewing becomes uncomfortable, signaling that the disease has reached a critical stage.
8. Ill-Fitting Removable Dentures
For denture wearers, gum disease can cause changes in gum and bone structure, leading to poorly fitting dentures. This can result in discomfort, difficulty speaking or eating, and further oral health issues.
Why Early Detection Matters
Ignoring these symptoms can lead to advanced gum disease, known as periodontitis, which is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Moreover, research has linked gum disease to serious health issues, including diabetes, heart disease, and complications during pregnancy.
At Platinum Dental Group, our experts emphasize prevention and early intervention. By understanding and addressing the symptoms of gum disease promptly, you can protect your smile and your overall health. If you notice any of the signs above, schedule a consultation with our team today. Let’s work together to keep your gums healthy and your smile radiant!
Systemic Health Impact of Periodontal Disease
Scientific studies have revealed links between periodontal disease and chronic systemic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. There is also evidence of an association between periodontal disease and stroke.
In pregnant women, periodontal disease increases the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight by up to seven times.
At Platinum Dental Group, we are dedicated to combining advanced technology, skilled expertise, and personalized care to provide effective solutions for gum health, ensuring your smile stays vibrant and your overall well-being is safeguarded.
