Gum pain can stem from various causes and can make it challenging to identify gingivitis without professional dental expertise. Understanding gingivitis is crucial as it can escalate into severe oral health issues if not addressed promptly. Early detection and periodontal disease treatment by skilled professionals are essential measures to preventing its progression into more serious conditions.
At Lamar Dental, we provide effective periodontal treatment for a range of issues affecting the gums. Our gum disease specialist can help your gums regain and maintain their optimal health for the long term.
Understanding Gingivitis
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, which usually results from a film of bacteria (plaque) that accumulates on the teeth. This condition is a common and mild form of periodontal disease that can lead to much more serious conditions if not treated. A dentist for gum disease can diagnose the condition with an exam along with a few questions.
Every case of gingivitis is unique. While it can be mild or extremely painful, the symptoms commonly include:
- Dark red, irritated and swollen gums
- Excessive bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Sensitive or tender gums, especially when chewing
- Mouth sores
- Bad breath
Certain lifestyle choices and conditions can increase your risk of developing gingivitis. These include smoking, using chewing tobacco, taking certain medications, as well as having crooked teeth or old fillings. It’s important to note there is a link between gingivitis and other serious health issues such as heart disease, diabetes and stroke.
How Does Gum Disease Treatment Work?
For milder cases of gum disease, simply improving your oral hygiene practices — such as regular brushing and flossing, along with professional dental cleanings — can be very effective. More advanced cases may require a deep cleaning process known as scaling and root planing, which helps remove plaque and calculus from below the gum line. In some cases, antibiotics might be prescribed to help combat the infection.
For those suffering from a periodontal abscess, there must be timely and effective periodontal abscess treatment to prevent further damage to the gums and surrounding tissues. Generally, gum abscess treatment requires techniques such as scaling and root planing, and if necessary, surgical interventions to halt disease progression and rejuvenate oral health.
Preventing Gum Disease for Good
Gingivitis and other gum diseases can develop subtly and potentially lead to periodontitis, a more severe condition that poses additional health risks. It’s very important to keep up with your routine checkups so your dentist can catch gum disease in its tracks before it becomes a more serious issue.
Here at Lamar Dental, we offer exceptional gingivitis treatment in Hattiesburg along with other treatment options, such as our Perio Membership without insurance, which is ideal for patients with active or past periodontal disease.
Contact our team at 601-402-7986 or book an appointment online to start your journey toward long-term oral health with Lamar Dental.