Going to the dentist can be stressful because you might be unsure about what is going to happen when you get there, and that uncertainty can lead to feelings of anxiety. When you visit us at Hopewell Family Dentistry in Anderson, SC, our goal is to ease your mind and help you improve your oral health. One way we do that is by checking for and treating periodontal disease.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, occurs when bacteria build up on your teeth, causing your gums to be red and inflamed. Gum disease is caused by improper dental hygiene; when you don’t brush and floss correctly or often enough, your gums will bleed, and if you don’t go to the dentist for treatment, you risk losing your teeth.
What Are the Stages of Periodontal (Gum) Disease?
The main stages of gum disease are as follows:
- Gingivitis – In this stage, you will experience swollen, bleeding, and painful gums, and you may have persistent bad breath. If you practice good oral hygiene, your gum disease may not advance.
- Moderate gum disease – At this next stage of periodontal disease, you can expect that your gums are receding and very sore. You may begin to experience tooth decay, and your teeth could come loose at this point.
- Advanced gum disease – This final stage of periodontal disease is extremely serious because you could lose teeth and experience chronic pain. Your infection could lead to your jaw as well.
What Can You Do to Prevent Gum Disease?
There are several simple things you can do to avoid gum disease and to keep your mouth in top shape, including:
- Brushing two times a day with quality fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing your teeth daily to keep plaque from building up between your teeth.
- Making regular dental appointments twice a year.
Do You Need More Information on Periodontal Disease in Anderson?
If you want to visit with someone on our dental team about your gum health or overall oral health, we are ready to take your call. Please get in touch with us at (864) 760-1611 for more information.