Three out of four adults have some form of gum, or periodontal, disease. Often, the initial signs of gum disease are mild. In many cases, people may not realize they have a problem. Unfortunately, this condition can wreak havoc on your oral health and overall wellbeing. Gum disease has been linked to serious health issues like cardiovascular illness, increased risk of stroke, diabetes complications, and pre-term birth.

What causes gum disease?

Plaque and tartar build up are the main culprits when it comes to gum disease. Certain factors can increase your risk for gum disease, including genetics, tobacco use, hormones, and chronic illnesses.

What are the symptoms of gum disease?

Often, gum disease silently creates problems in your mouth. Typically, patients experience red, swollen, or bleeding gums. As the disease progresses, you may notice more serious concerns like persistent bad breath, loose teeth, and gum recession.

What are the levels of gum disease?

Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. At this point, the damage is still reversible. If it progresses to periodontitis, the bone and tissue in the infected area of the mouth break down and may ultimately result in tooth and bone loss.

How can I prevent gum disease?

You can take several steps to keep your mouth healthy. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly to remove food and bacteria from your mouth. Scheduling regular checkups will give your dentist a chance to evaluate your mouth and look for anything out of the ordinary.

Because many people don’t enjoy dental visits, they put them off, which can make oral health issues worse. Modern dentistry enables dentists to correct problems and transform any smile. With the sedation options available, you can rest comfortably while your dentist gives you a healthy, vibrant smile.
Discolored or stained teeth
Brushing alone may not remove discolorations cause by tea, coffee, tobacco, or even age. Professional teeth whitening can penetrate stains and lighten teeth up to 10 shades. You can choose from in-office or take-home kits.

Chips and gaps between teeth
With minor cosmetic issues like jagged teeth or space between front teeth, cosmetic bonding can produce beautiful results. In just minutes, your dentist can mask small imperfections with composite resin materials and a curing light.

Mild tooth decay
When you develop cavities, your dentist will remove the damaged tissue and restore the area with a filling. Most dentists currently place all-white fillings because they require less removal of healthy tissue and they won’t compromise your gorgeous image.

Cracked or fractured teeth
For teeth that have sustained extensive damage, you will probably need a dental crown. Also called a cap, a dental crown covers the remaining tooth structure above the gum line, re-establishing the strength and stability of the injured tooth.

Missing teeth
If you have lost teeth due to trauma or disease, your dentist may suggest dental implants. Designed to create an artificial tooth root and crown, a dental implant looks and functions like your original dentition. Dentures and partial dentures are also available to give you a complete smile.

Schedule your next visit at Comfort Dental Weymouth today! Cosmetic and Implant Dentist in Weymouth MA