Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is quite a common dental condition that affects the soft tissue around your teeth. Left untreated, this condition can escalate to destroy bone. In its earliest stages, patients will experience gingivitis, which is the inflammation and redness along your gum line. As the first stage of gum infection, this is usually caused by plaque that has accumulated for a long time.

Bleeding occurs as your gum disease gets progressively worse. This is a reaction to your body’s immune system releasing antibodies targeted to that specific area. Once the soft tissues break down and bleed, this allows the antibodies to enter the infected pocket. However, the longer this stage lasts, the bigger this pocket becomes leading to your gums receding further and further down.

Gradually, gum detachment leads to bone loss. You’ll find yourself experiencing the below symptoms:

• Bad breath
• Sore gums (and bleeding)
• Buildup of tartar
• Tooth mobility
• Teeth falling out

Research has also shown that gum disease can impact your immune system and patients who suffer from gum disease are also more likely to suffer from other medical issues such as cardiovascular disease, pneumonia, diabetes etc. This is likely because such conditions and diseases may show bodily symptoms that affect dental health.

Somersmiles Dental can give you comprehensive gum treatment that will help combat periodontitis. By coming in every 6 months for a checkup we can actively screen for signs of gum disease and catch this in its earliest stages.

Have any queries regarding sedation dentistry?  Feel free to contact our expert team at Somersmiles Dental for more information. Book a visit at Somersmiles Dental in Somerville today to get started.