Keeping your permanent teeth healthy for life is a possibility but it takes a lot of maintenance and care! Caring for your teeth and the structures surrounding your teeth is the best way to help your teeth remain strong and free from decay. Oral health is based on the condition of our gums and the supporting bones around the teeth. The tissues around the teeth can be damaged by gum disease and other forms of bacterial infection. Gum disease is one of the leading contributors to adult tooth loss. The reason tooth loss occurs is the gum disease doesn’t cause a lot of pain so many people don’t realize they have it. That’s why it’s important to see your dentist regularly so they can catch problems like gum disease in the early stages and address it right away.
What causes gum disease? It forms from plaque buildup on the teeth. The plaque begins to form pockets between the gums and teeth and leads to gingivitis and periodontitis. Some symptoms of periodontal disease include:
- Tender gums
- Loose teeth
- Gums pulling away from teeth
- Bleeding gums
- Consistent bad breath
- Pus between gums and teeth
If your dentist discovers gum disease, periodontal therapy can aid in keeping your teeth healthy for life! This therapy helps restore the tissues that support the teeth. Your dentist can help you determine which type of periodontal therapy is right for you. Treatments include at-home periodontal trays, deep cleanings and laser gum surgery. If you’d like to get checked for periodontal disease in Milpitas, CA, call us today to schedule an appointment!