The Importance of Treating Gum Disease Early

The gums are just as important as the teeth. As part of the jaw, the gums help to anchor the teeth securely and ensure stability. Unfortunately, many people do not pay enough attention to gum care. This part of the mouth is often ignored when brushing teeth. Children in particular often skip the gums. This may result in periodontitis, inflammation of the gums, bleeding, and receding gums which must be treated.

How gum disease develops

Numerous types of bacteria thrive among our oral flora. These do not pose a threat and are normal for healthy oral hygiene. Only when the oral flora is disturbed, such as with inadequate oral hygiene, too much sugar, etc., or more rarely also through irritation or injuries, can they multiply excessively and become a problem. If the food residues that accumulate in our mouths after every meal are not regularly removed, the bacteria start to metabolize the food residues and form a dental biofilm, which later becomes plaque.

When this plaque is not eliminated, the bacteria will form acids and other toxins. These acids and toxins irritate and cause damage to not only the teeth with caries but also to our gums, in the form of gum inflammation (gingivitis). A distinction is made here between acute gingivitis, with acute pain, and chronic gingivitis, which usually shows no symptoms.

Although chronic gingivitis is the most common chronic inflammation in the human body, it should not be left untreated. If the gingivitis is not treated, the bacteria migrate via the tooth neck into the adjacent gums to cause periodontitis. The tooth pocket provides ideal conditions for the bacteria to proliferate, which leads to the formation of tartar and causes the tooth pockets to becomepathologically enlarged. The inflammation then spreads further and can even lead to bone loss.

Get cost-effective treatment for gum disease today

As you can tell, it is important to treat gum disease early to prevent serious complications. The only way to tell if you are suffering from gum disease is to see a dentist at least once a year. To schedule an appointment to test for gum disease and get cost-effective treatment, get in touch with us today.