Bidding Farewell to Gingivitis & Embracing Radiant Periodontal Health

Are you dealing with persistent bad breath or gums that are red, swollen, or prone to bleeding? You might be suffering from gum disease. At the office of North Bellmore Dental Associates, PC, we offer a comprehensive range of services designed to help our patients maintain and improve their periodontal health.

Dental plaque is a sticky film that constantly forms in your mouth, harboring bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease. If this plaque is left to accumulate between your teeth and gums, it can lead to infection and inflammation of the periodontal tissues supporting your teeth.

The Beginning Stage: Gingivitis

Gingivitis represents the initial stage of gum disease. While it may not cause significant discomfort, there are specific signs to look out for that indicate the start of a problem. If you notice your gums bleed when you brush, appear red and inflamed, or feel tender, you likely have gingivitis.

Causes of Gingivitis Include:

• Insufficient Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can allow plaque to build up on your teeth and gums.
• Smoking & Tobacco Use: These habits weaken the immune system, making it easier for gingivitis to develop.
• Medical Conditions: Certain diseases like diabetes can increase the risk of gum disease.
• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, such as those during pregnancy or menopause, can make your gums more susceptible to gingivitis.
• Poor Nutrition: A diet lacking essential nutrients can compromise the immune system and contribute to gum disease.

The Good News: Gingivitis Can Be Reversed!

With proper care, you can eliminate gingivitis and restore your periodontal health. By treating gingivitis early in its progression, you can avoid the tissue damage associated with more advanced gum disease. Even though inflammation and an active disease process are present with gingivitis, the underlying structures supporting your teeth remain intact.

At this stage, some simple steps can successfully reverse gingivitis and restore your periodontal health. Our office may recommend a series of deeper dental cleanings involving scaling and root planing, an improved oral hygiene regimen at home, and other non-surgical therapeutic measures to maintain and improve your periodontal health.

What Happens if Gum Disease Goes Untreated?

On the contrary, if left untreated, gingivitis will unfortunately progress to more advanced and challenging stages of gum disease. When this occurs, tissue damage takes place, leading to the formation of gingival pockets, gum recession, diminishing alveolar bone, and eventually, the loosening and loss of teeth. But with periodontal disease, it's not just about tooth loss or potential oral infections. Researchers are increasingly discovering links between periodontal disease and other medical conditions.

For all these reasons, timely and effective care is essential. By taking the time to eat a healthy diet, practice good oral hygiene, and get regular dental check-ups, you can maintain your periodontal health, enjoy an attractive smile, and protect your overall well-being.

Don't let gum disease take control of your oral health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile!