The bones and tissue that support and surround your teeth are the periodontium. When any of these areas have an infection, it is referred to as periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease can only be treated by a dental professional. It cannot be treated at home. Our La Grange, KY dentist at Crestwood Dental Group utilizes specific procedures in order to thoroughly clean the area so that your mouth can return to good health.

What is periodontal disease?

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease. Gingivitis occurs when plaque on the teeth creates issues with your gums and bones. If left untreated, gingivitis progresses into periodontal disease. At this stage, the plaque has hardened and is more difficult to remove by regular brushing and flossing. Only a dentist has the necessary tools to remove tartar build up.

Tarter and plaque cause the gums to recede from your teeth and allow bacteria to make a home along your gum line. This leads to infections and bone deterioration. It is difficult to reverse the side effect of the disease, but special cleanings and treatment plans can stop the periodontal disease from worsening.

Do I have periodontal disease?
This is a silent and sometimes pain-free disease that may go unnoticed for some time. For this reason alone, we stress the importance of regular dental exams. However, some of the symptoms you might experience include:

Changes in your gums

Receding gums or swelling are signs of periodontal disease. Gums that are red or gums that bleed frequently are another indication that you have periodontal disease.

Halitosis

If you can’t seem to rid yourself of bad breath, it could be a sign of infection in your gums. Halitosis is a common symptom for many dental issues including periodontal disease.

Changes in the appearance of your teeth

Tooth sensitivity, a loose tooth, or even a change of appearance can signify that you have periodontal disease. If your gums recede, your teeth may appear to look longer than before.

Don’t put yourself at risk for developing gum disease or periodontal disease. Establish a good oral hygiene regimen and visit our La Grange, KY dentist office two times each year. Our professional cleanings will keep plaque at bay and help you avoid periodontal disease.