Can Periodontists Cure Gum Disease? 

Do you need to see a periodontist in Boca Raton? You need to see one if you exhibit signs of gum problems.  

According to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 47% of Americans aged 30 years and above suffer from periodontal disease. And the bad news is that it increases with age.  

Recent reports show that 70% of adults 65 years old and above are diagnosed with periodontal disease. What exactly happens if you have gum disease? Is there a cure for it? Can it be reversed? 

Can You Reverse Gum Disease? 

What Is Gum Disease? 

 
Gum disease, also known as periodontitis and periodontal disease, starts with bacteria in your mouth that may lead to tooth loss due to gum tissue degradation around your teeth. 

Are Gingivitis and Periodontitis the Same? 

Gingivitis typically precedes periodontitis. However, it’s important to mention that not all gingivitis progresses into periodontitis. At some point in your life, you will probably experience mild symptoms of gum disease such as bleeding, swelling, and painful gums. When it happens, make sure you let your periodontist know about it so that it can be treated as soon as possible. Without treatment, mild gum disease can quickly escalate into something bigger. 

How Is Gum Disease Diagnosed? 

This is where regular dental checkups come in handy. When you visit dental health experts at least once every six months for a comprehensive oral exam, they can assess the condition of your gums and determine if you have gum disease. Usually, they’ll check for the following signs: 

·      Swelling and bleeding gums 

·      Gum pockets 

·      Wobbly teeth and tooth sensitivity 

·      Evident bone loss 

How Can It Be Treated? 

The main goal of treating gum disease is to ensure that your teeth are properly and snugly attached to healthy gums. Treatments can vary depending on the severity of the disease and your overall health. 

All treatments aim to reduce the swelling, eliminate the gum pockets that harbor bacteria, stop the spread of infection and ultimately prevent disease progression. Periodontists can prescribe nonsurgical therapies to control the infection or surgery to restore gum and bone tissues. 

Can You Prevent Gum Disease? 

The good news is that gum disease can be prevented as long as you make efforts to stop plaque accumulation. How do you control plaque buildup? Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-based toothpaste. 

Check your toothbrush every month to see if the bristles are frayed. If the bristles look worn, you should get a new toothbrush. Generally, patients are advised to replace their toothbrushes every three months. 

Besides brushing, you should also make flossing a part of your oral care routine. Floss your teeth once daily, preferably before bedtime, to remove food particles that have lodged between the spaces of your teeth.  Flossing daily also helps prevent plaque buildup. Just ensure you follow the proper technique to avoid puncturing your gums. 

Cap it off by rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash. Swishing with a mouthwash inhibits bacterial growth that could potentially lead to gum disease and fights halitosis or bad breath. 

Do You Need to See a Periodontist in Boca Raton? 

If your gums are painful and if they feel weird, we suggest you see a periodontist and have your mouth thoroughly examined. At 5^th Avenue Dental, our dedicated team strives to provide you with first-class dentistry. We offer a wide range of dental treatments tailored to your needs. Call us today to request an appointment.