Gum disease is incredibly common. Did you know that nearly half of Americans over the age of 30 have gum disease at one stage or another? There are two types of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the first stage, and when it is addressed early on, it can be completely reversed when treated timely. When left to progress, periodontitis can develop. This condition cannot be cured, only managed. Continue reading to learn some of the signs of gingivitis so you can take action!
The Symptoms of Gingivitis
Many people who have gingivitis don’t even realize that they have it because they are unaware of the symptoms. Fortunately, by becoming familiar with the warning signs, you can take action before it gets more severe. Here are some of the most common symptoms:
- Swollen, puffy gum tissue.
- Red or dark gum tissue.
- Bleeding of the gums – especially when brushing and flossing.
- Bad breath that doesn’t subside.
- Unusual gum tenderness.
What Should You Do If You Have Signs of Gingivitis?
If you notice any of the symptoms of gingivitis listed above, you should give your dentist a call. During your visit, your dentist will thoroughly examine your smile. They will check for irritation and swelling. They will also measure the depth of the pockets between your gums and teeth. This will indicate if you have gum disease.
How Is Gingivitis Addressed?
When caught in its early stages, gum disease can often be entirely reversed. There are several gum disease treatment options available. Here are some of the common solutions:
- Scaling & Root Planing: Scaling and root planing is the most common treatment option for gum disease. It is comprised of two parts that usually take place over separate appointments. For that scaling portion, your dentist will use dental tools to clear away tartar buildups along and beneath the gumline. For the root planing portion, they will file down the roots of the teeth to help the gum tissue to reattach and heal effectively.
- Laser Periodontal Therapy: Laser periodontal therapy utilizes a beam of light to accurately remove severely damaged and infected gum tissue to help the gums heal effectively. It cauterizes the area as it removed damaged tissue, eliminating the need for sutures, scalpels, bleeding, and long recovery time.
If you think you may have gingivitis, this is the perfect time to reach out to your dentist. By addressing this issue now, you can reverse your symptoms and promote a healthy smile!
About the Practice
At Westgate Dental Care, we have a team of skilled dentists serving patients in the Arlington Heights area. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. If you think you may have gingivitis, we’d be happy to help. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (847) 577-7171.