Gingivitis and Periodontal Treatment Near You
You have likely heard of gingivitis and periodontal disease before. However, you may need to learn how these conditions differ and affect your teeth. Inflammation or swelling of your gums is called gingivitis, a sign of gum disease. On the other hand, periodontal disease in North Naples, FL, also known as gum disease, is an infection in your gums. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss.
What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis results from plaque build-up caused by the harmful bacteria in your mouth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that coats your teeth and increases your risk for tooth decay and gum disease. If you have plaque build-up, your gums will bleed when you brush and floss your teeth. Untreated gingivitis can evolve into gum disease and require gum disease treatment near you.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease or more commonly known as gum disease is a gum infection. When you have periodontal disease, it causes your gums to pull away (recede). This exposes your teeth to germs and makes them increasingly vulnerable. When plaque grows underneath your gum line, it can destroy your gum tissue and bone, and as a result, the teeth can become loose.
Although the main cause of gum disease is plaque, there are other risk factors, such as:
- Hormonal changes
- Medical conditions (diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and HIV)
- Specific types of medication
- Smoking and using other tobacco products
- Genetics
- Failing to brush and floss daily
- Failing to see our dentist in Naples for a biannual cleaning and check-up
Preventing Gingivitis and Gum Disease With Our Periodontist in North Naples
Luckily, preventing gingivitis and gum disease is possible. Practicing simple oral health habits regularly and visiting our dental office near you every 6 months for a cleaning and gum evaluation are the keys to prevention. Also, be sure to:
- Brush at least twice per day, especially after eating
- Floss between the teeth and along the gum line at least once per day
- Use a mouthwash to eliminate plaque and food particles
- Revaluate your risk factors
We provide periodontal treatment in North Naples, FL. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about your options.
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Dental FAQs
What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?
Signs of periodontal disease are swellings and bleeding of gums, bad breath, and loose teeth. These indicators are infections that can destroy gum tissue and bone.
Is periodontal treatment painful?
The main point is that treatment is not painful most of the time. The technologies of modern medicine are made to bring about minimal discomfort, and light pain that is experienced can be controlled with painkillers.
How long does periodontal treatment take?
The time will be decided according to the case of the patient. Normally, the cleaning process is about an hour; however, if the patient has more complications, the treatment can take more hours.
Can periodontal disease affect overall health?
Definitely, gum infection can be the root of various serious health issues like heart disease and stroke. Early detection of such risks through regular dental check-ups is key to managing them.
Can periodontal disease cause bad breath?
If there is persistent bad breath, gum disease is one of the causes due to bacterial and plaque accumulation. Proper treatment will solve the problem.
Will I need follow-up visits after treatment?
Yes, the necessity of a follow-up visit is for the purpose of checking the progress of healing and for avoiding relapse. Your dentist will determine the dates of your visits according to your personal needs.