Gingivitis is no laughing matter. If you allow it to go unmanaged, it can deteriorate into advanced gum disease, which causes more tooth loss in adults than cavities.
During your checkups, we will record six different “pocket” depths around each tooth. If any of the attachment levels are deeper than they should be, it may indicate active disease.
Symptoms include:
- Gums that bleed
- Tissue detachment and gum recession
- Tooth mobility or loss
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Heavy tartar and plaque buildup
- Bone loss seen on x-rays
If flossing and brushing don’t reverse symptoms of bleeding gums, there may be an underlying infection that requires professional help to reverse. After all, flossing and brushing cannot reach the deep pocket areas where periodontal disease may be developing.
Deep Cleanings
To manage your gum infection, we will perform a deep cleaning to remove bacterial deposits along the surfaces of your tooth roots. In most cases, we recommend maintenance appointments every 3 months until symptoms are reversed or fully manageable. A bone graft may be necessary to promote support for long-term tooth stability.
Why It Matters
Gum disease doesn’t just cause tooth loss…it can also impact your lifestyle. The active bacterial infection of periodontitis has been scientifically proven to suppress the immune response and allow the spread of biofilm through the cardiovascular system.
The more severe your gum infection, the more difficult it is to manage or control problems like:
- Blood sugar levels in diabetics
- Sleep apnea or obesity
- Erectile dysfunction
- Premature labor
- Respiratory diseases
- Heart attack, stroke, or high blood pressure
If periodontal disease runs in your family, or your gums constantly bleed when you floss, it’s best that you schedule a periodontal evaluation as soon as possible. Call O2 Dental Group today to schedule an exam.
At O2 Dental Group, our dentures are made with the highest quality using the best materials and the lowest cost option.