Most diseases that affect more than 50% of the population, lead to systemic diseases, and are detrimental to the health of patients with chronic illness would be newsworthy, but very few people are even aware that periodontal (gum) disease is so prevalent in the US. At Williamsburg Dental, we strive to educate our patients on this potentially harmful illness, and screen for gum disease at every six month checkup. Our dentists also provide outstanding periodontal therapy to gently and effectively remove infected gum tissue and put a smile back on your face. If you think you may have gum disease, call our Lincoln, NE dental practice to schedule an appointment today.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease like tooth decay starts with plaque. Sugars in our foods combine with bacteria to form a sticky, acidic film called plaque. This film is capable of breaking down even tough tooth enamel, so it’s no surprise that plaque is harmful to gum tissue as well. Plaque builds up on our teeth throughout the day, and if it is not removed by regular flossing and brushing, it can harden forming calculus sometimes referred to as “tartar” that cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone. Tartar buildup irritates the gums causing redness and sensitivity. This mild form of gum disease is referred to as gingivitis and can easily be remedied by the trusted dental practitioners at Williamsburg Dental. Left untreated, gingivitis develops into the more severe periodontitis. When gum disease reaches this state, it requires more advanced treatments for removal and is capable of causing extensive damage to your oral health. In fact, periodontitis is the number one cause of tooth loss in US adults.
Beautiful woman having toothache
Warning Signs of Gum Disease Lincoln, NE
For many patients, gum disease remains asymptomatic until reaching an advanced state. That’s why regular checkups with your Williamsburg Dental team are so important. Symptoms that may indicate periodontal disease include:
- Red, raw, or swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Gum sensitivity
- Receding gum tissue
- Bad breath or bad taste in the mouth that isn’t improved by brushing or flossing
- Pus, pimples, or other infected sores on the gums
- Loosened teeth or changes in bite alignment
Therapy for Periodontal Disease Lincoln, NE Trusts
Healthy teeth and gums start at home with daily brushing and flossing. If you’re worried you may miss plaque while cleaning, you might want to consider mixing a few drops of food coloring into water and swish for about 30 seconds. The color will reveal plaque deposits for easy removal.
Visiting Williamsburg Dental every six months allows our hygienists to remove plaque that has hardened into tartar before it can damage your teeth or gums. Additionally, our skilled dentists examine teeth and gums for signs of periodontal disease that may go unnoticed. If you develop gingivitis or periodontitis, we can help you with periodontal therapies like deep cleanings, scaling, root planing, and antibiotic treatment. If your gum disease has reached a severe level, we may need to refer you to a trusted periodontist for more advanced care.
Call Your Lincoln, NE Dentist to Stop Gum Disease in its Tracks
If you suffer from periodontal disease like more than 50% of US adults, don’t let gum disease harm your smile. Call to schedule an appointment with the trusted Williamsburg Dental team. Our Lincoln, NE office welcomes patients from South Lincoln, NE, Hickman, Crete, and the surrounding communities.