While tooth decay may be one of the most commonly discussed issues in dental offices, gum health is equally important and should not be overlooked. Healthy gums can prevent tooth decay; conversely, poor gum health can result in tooth loss. At Oradell Family Dental, we are concerned with maintaining the health of your entire mouth. This includes preventing decay and disease in structures that support both your teeth and your gums.
What are the causes Gum Disease?
While damage caused by bacteria is directly responsible for gum disease, neglecting the health of your gums is the real cause of most gum disorders. Many individuals do not recognize the important role that their gums play in their oral health. But in reality, your gums are responsible for protecting the roots of your teeth and the jaw bones that hold them in place.
When you neglect your gums, they become susceptible to gum disease, which breaks down the gum tissue and exposes the roots of your teeth. In advanced cases, gum disease can even expose your jaw bone. Unfortunately, many individuals with gum disease never realize the problem exists.
Preventing Gum Disease
Preventing gum disease is as simple as following good dental hygiene and being diligent about noticing changes to the coloration and texture of your gums. Flossing plays a key role in protecting your gums from the buildup of bacteria that thrives on the debris that gets stuck between your teeth when you eat. Flossing or rinsing your mouth with water after you eat can significantly reduce the risk of gum disease.
Antibacterial mouthwash can also play a part in protecting your gums from decay. However, even the most thorough flossing and brushing cannot completely remove the plaque and tartar that is caused by the buildup of bacteria on your teeth. Regular dental cleanings are necessary to ensure proper oral health.
What are my Gum Disease Treatment options?
You should visit Oradell Family Dental immediately if you notice that your gums:
- Have changed color to dark red or purple
- Have developed a different texture than before
- Experience heightened sensitivity
- Bleed when you floss or brush your teeth
These are all symptoms of gum disease and may indicate that your gums are at risk. If gum disease is diagnosed in its early stages, it can be effectively treated and may cause no permanent damage. However, gum disease that is allowed to languish and worsen can threaten the health of your entire mouth. Oradell periodontal dentist Dr. Howard Perlmutter may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line
- Gum surgery
- Bone graft to replace lost jaw bone material
- Antimicrobial treatment
- Soft tissue grafts
- Tray delivery gum disease treatment
Read what our patients are saying!
" I was in for a cleaning and, as always, I was impressed by the professionalism of the staff. My hygenist is great, answers questions I may have and does a very thorough cleaning job. "
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For more information on the health of your gums, please see our Periodontics page.
If you have some of the symptoms of gum disease, please contact our periodontal dentist today by calling (201) 384-9292 to schedule an appointment at Oradell Family Dental, serving patients in Northern New Jersey, including Dumont, Bergenfield, Paramus, Oradell, Haworth and Bergen County areas.
