Gum Disease Screening
Mesa, AZ
Gum disease is a serious oral health issue, although it does not often appear that way at first. This disease is a progressive condition. It occurs as a result of irritation to the gum tissue by oral bacteria and plaque buildup on the teeth. The irritation, which can cause the gums to appear red, then leads to inflammation or swelling. Many people with gingivitis may also experience bleeding gums.
These symptoms often go ignored, mistaken for aggressive brushing or flossing. Ignored, the disease quickly worsens. Swollen gums pull away from the teeth, allowing bacteria to fall below. The bacteria then attack the jawbone and periodontal ligaments. The most severe cases of gum disease can lead to serious problems such as infections, increased risks for health issues, and tooth loss.
At Timothy H. Kindt, DDS, we can help to spot gum disease, allowing you to get the treatment you need, with gum disease screening.
 What are the Causes of Gum Disease?
There are several different causes of gum disease, including such things as:
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Poor oral hygiene. Being lax in your oral care routine, or skipping brushing, flossing, and dental visits altogether, allows bacteria and plaque to build up in your mouth, greatly increasing your risk for gum disease.
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Misaligned teeth. Crooked teeth provide more hiding places for plaque and bacteria, and are more difficult to keep clean.
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Smoking, or using other tobacco products. Smoking restricts blood flow, and limits the amount of oxygen in your blood. This prevents your body from being able to effectively defend itself against bacteria.
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Alcohol. Alcohol has a drying effect on the mouth. Dry mouth creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth.
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Nutritional deficiencies. A balanced diet provides the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs to stay healthy. Certain vitamins, like vitamins C and B12, and minerals are essential for gum health. Lacking these vitamins can put your gums at greater risk.
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Certain types of medications. There are also some types of medications, such as some asthma and blood pressure medications, that cause dry mouth. |
What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
Common symptoms of gum disease include:
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Red, swollen gum tissue.
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Gums that bleed when you brush or floss.
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Bad breath that just does not want to go away, no matter how much you brush, use mouthwash or chew gum. Chronic bad breath is often the result of bacteria and rotting food particles trapped below the gum line.
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Gum recession. Over time, the tooth roots can become exposed, which then leads to sensitivity.
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Your teeth become loose.
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Your teeth shift out of their natural alignment, throwing off your bite.
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Tooth loss. |
How is Gum Disease Diagnosed?
During your regular dental exams, we perform a thorough gum disease screening. We take a close look at your gums, checking them for any signs of infection. We look for redness and swelling. We will look at how your teeth sit against your gums and look for recession. If we notice any signs of gum disease, we will then assess the extent of the damage and recommend you for gum disease treatment.
Restoring Your Oral Health
There are a variety of treatments for gum disease. The exact treatment you need will depend on your specific situation. Common treatments include:
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Scaling and root planing. This treatment is a deep cleaning of your teeth, where buildup is removed from the visible crowns of the teeth as well as the roots.
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Laser treatments. Gums that are too swollen can interfere with effective scaling and root planing. A laser can remove the inflamed tissue, providing access for treatment.
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Pocket reduction surgery. Periodontal pockets that are too deep cannot be effectively cleaned. This surgery reduces pocket depth and helps to thoroughly clean your teeth.
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Grafting. More advanced gum disease leads to gum recession and bone loss. Soft tissue grafts restore lost gum tissue, while bone grafts restore strength to the jawbone. |
Gum disease will not wait for your regular dental appointments to appear. It is important that you are aware of the signs and take action quickly. If you notice any symptoms of gum disease, even minor ones, do not ignore them. Call Timothy H. Kindt DDS today at (480) 939-5818 to schedule your consultation. |
