I May Have Periodontal Disease. What Happens If I Don't Seek Treatment?

White, bright teeth often come to mind when you think of a healthy smile. However, teeth can only remain healthy when they are supported by healthy gum tissue. Periodontal disease is a gum infection generally caused by poor oral hygiene. The dental team at Advanced Dentistry of Centre County encourages their State College, PA patients to maintain their oral health through regular visits to their dental practice and a consistent daily brushing and flossing routine. If you suspect you have periodontal disease symptoms, our dental experts at Advanced Dentistry of Centre County can help diagnose and treat this oral infection to restore your dental health. Contact our State College, PA location to learn more or schedule an appointment online today.

What are the periodontal disease stages?

Periodontal disease is an inflammatory infection of the gum tissue and bone that supports your teeth. It occurs when harmful bacteria from plaque and tartar buildup infect the gums surrounding your teeth, and the most common signs are red, bleeding, and swollen gums. Periodontal disease is progressive and can be a silent infection, meaning that symptoms don't always appear until State College, PA patients are in the advanced stages. Some common early warning signs are:

• Red, tender, or swollen gums
• Visible plaque and tartar buildup
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Receding gumline
• Loose teeth
• Infected pockets between the teeth and gums
• Bad breath
• Change in lower or upper bite occlusions

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease, which shows up as irritated, red, or swollen gums. Daily brushing and flossing combined with professional dental cleanings can reverse gingivitis before it advances. Periodontitis is the next stage, leading to small, infected pockets at the gumline or gum recession, and even tooth loss.

Why is it important to treat periodontal disease?

Gingivitis, or the early stage of gum disease, can generally be treated by stepping up your oral hygiene at home, brushing twice a day, and flossing regularly, plus seeking professional dental help. Without proper treatment, gingivitis will lead to advanced periodontal disease. Gums, connective tissue, and bone structure may start to deteriorate, affecting your smile and overall health. Periodontal disease has been linked to other health concerns like heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and certain cancers, eventually leading to tooth loss. Scaling and root planing can be performed in the early stages of periodontal disease, removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. For more advanced periodontal disease, patients may have to consider more invasive dental treatments, such as pocket reduction, bone grafting, or laser gum surgery.

Periodontal disease treatment near me

Treating periodontal disease as early as possible minimizes gum tissue damage and reduces the risk of tooth loss. After a thorough dental exam, our team at Advanced Dentistry of Centre County will do a comprehensive exam and recommend the right treatment plan to fit your needs. Your gums are a critical part of your overall oral health. Proper oral hygiene, along with routine visits to Advanced Dentistry of Centre County, is paramount to prevent the development of periodontal disease. Contact our State College, PA office today to schedule an appointment so our caring and dedicated team can assist you.