CALL TODAY
Taking care of your gums is about more than having a nice smile. Although it is often overlooked, gum disease not only threatens your dental health but can also have far-reaching consequences for your entire body.
This blog will explore what gum disease is, how it develops, and how addressing it can protect both your oral and general health. Finally, we will discuss how Dr. Ari Binder and his highly skilled team at 360 Dental provide expert care to diagnose and effectively manage gum disease.
Understanding Gum Disease
Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is a serious and progressive oral health condition that first develops with the inflammation of your gums. Primarily caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that tends to build up on teeth and gum, periodontal disease can lead to the destruction of tissue and the underlying bone that supports your teeth if left untreated over time.
The main stages of gum disease include:
- Gingivitis – This early stage of gum disease presents itself as red, swollen gums that may bleed when you brush or floss your teeth. Fortunately, the condition is reversible at this stage if you practice good oral hygiene and seek professional care.
- Periodontitis – If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. This condition damages the gums and bone surrounding your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.
How Gum Disease Develops
Gum disease develops when harmful bacteria in your mouth thrive due to poor cleaning habits or other contributing factors. Key causes and risk factors include:
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Not brushing and flossing effectively allows plaque to accumulate, creating an environment for harmful bacteria to grow.
- Diet – Consuming sugary foods and drinks can promote bacterial growth. Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in keeping your gums healthy.
- Tobacco Use – Smoking or the use of other tobacco products can significantly increase your risk of developing periodontal disease.
- Chronic Conditions – Diseases such as diabetes and heart disease can make you more susceptible to gum infections.
- Hormonal Changes – During pregnancy, puberty, or menopause, hormonal fluctuations in the body can make gums more sensitive and vulnerable to disease.
- Genetics – If you have a family history of gum disease, you may have a higher likelihood of developing it.
The Importance of Gum Disease Treatment
It is essential to seek treatment for gum disease, as it can affect more than just your oral health. Treating gum disease helps protect your overall well-being in several key ways.
Preventing Tooth Loss
Unchecked gum disease can damage the structures that hold your teeth in place. If you ignore the problem, tooth loss may become inevitable.
Safeguarding Heart Health
Numerous studies have shown a link between gum disease and cardiovascular issues. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream, potentially contributing to heart disease, clogged arteries, and other serious issues.
Managing Diabetes
Studies have shown that gum disease can worsen blood sugar control in diabetic patients. Conversely, treating gum disease can help improve diabetes management.
Reducing the Risk of Systemic Diseases
Bacteria from gum disease can spread to other parts of the body, increasing the risk of respiratory problems, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain types of cancer.
Improving Quality of Life
Treating gum disease can relieve discomfort, eliminate bad breath, and contribute to a healthier, more confident smile.
How Dr. Ari Binder Helps Treat Gum Disease
Dr. Ari Binder and his skilled team at 360 Dental offers compassionate and cutting-edge care for patients with gum disease. Through early diagnosis and personalized treatment plans, they help restore both oral health and overall well-being.
Comprehensive Diagnosis
Dr. Binder performs thorough dental exams to identify the presence and severity of gum disease. Using advanced dental technology, his team ensures you receive accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment recommendations.
Professional Cleaning
In the case of gingivitis, professional cleaning is often enough to remove plaque and tartar, thereby helping to reverse early gum disease symptoms. This process, called scaling, helps eliminate harmful bacteria that traditional brushing cannot reach.
Scaling and Root Planing
For more advanced gum disease, Dr. Binder may recommend scaling and root planing. The procedure involves deep cleaning below the gumline. This removes plaque and smoothes the surface of your tooth roots, thereby preventing further bacterial buildup.
Periodontal Maintenance
In addition to treatment, our team at 360 Dental emphasizes preventive care. You should have regular periodontal maintenance appointments to help keep gum disease at bay and preserve the results of previous treatments.
Patient Education
Dr. Binder believes that informed patients make better decisions about their health. His team takes the time to educate patients about proper oral hygiene practices and the steps they can take to maintain healthy gums at home.
Gum Disease Treatment in Eugene, Oregon
Taking charge of your gum health is simple with 360 Dental. If you suspect you have periodontal disease or want to prevent it from developing, Dr. Binder and his team can put your mind at ease.
To schedule a consultation, call (541) 689-1645 or submit a Request an Appointment form.
Do not wait to protect your smile and health. Book an appointment today.
