Ignoring gum disease can lead to other health problems like heart disease and diabetes. At Mark C. Beal, D.M.D. & Associates, Dr. Mark Beal and his team offer specialized periodontics services to diagnose, treat, and prevent gum disease. If you have chronic bad breath, sore or bleeding gums, or other signs of periodontal disease, call or schedule an appointment online today.
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is usually caused by a buildup of plaque near the gumline of your tooth. When regularly brushing and flossing doesn’t remove this plaque, it can harden into tartar.
Plaque continues building up over tartar, leading to gum irritation, swelling, and redness. This is the first stage of gum disease and is known as gingivitis. If gingivitis is left untreated, periodontal disease can develop.
Prevention is the best way to avoid periodontal disease. Dr. Beal and his associates can help by providing good dental hygiene strategies and by removing tartar buildup during regular dental cleanings.
The common symptoms of gum disease include:
When left untreated, periodontal disease can cause heart disease and diabetes and has also been linked to low birth weights and premature delivery in pregnant women.
Using tobacco products and practicing poor dental hygiene significantly increases your risk of gum disease. Additional factors that increase your risk include:
Some health conditions can also negatively affect your gum health such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, HIV, and osteoporosis.
Periodontists, dental specialists recognized by the American Dental Association for treating the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth and jaw, treat gum disease.
A variety of gentle, safe, and effective periodontal therapy treatments offered by Dr. Mark Beal and his team at Mark C. Beal, D.M.D. & Associates include:
Your periodontist might also recommend at-home treatments like special toothpaste, mouthwash, toothbrushes, or prescription treatment trays to treat your condition.
Call Mark C. Beal, D.M.D. & Associates or schedule an appointment online to evaluate and improve your gum health today.