Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, occurs when the tissues that support your teeth become infected.
It is possible to have periodontal disease and have no warning signs—in fact, gum disease is often painless.
Gum disease occurs in two stages:
- The first stage is called gingivitis. Symptoms include red or swollen gums, or gums that bleed easily. The good news is that gingivitis can be treated by a professional cleaning.
- The second stage is called periodontitis. It affects over 47.2% of adults over 30 in the U.S. Over time, it weakens the tissues and bones in your mouth and can lead to tooth loss.
We often think of dentistry as being just about taking care of our teeth, but the health of our gums is equally important.
What Are theSymptoms ofGum Disease?
The American Academy of Periodontology warns patients to look out for these symptoms:
- Red, swollen or tender gums or other pain in your mouth
- Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating hard food
- Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth, causing the teeth to look longer than before
- Loose or separating teeth
- Pus between your gums and teeth
- Sores in your mouth
- Persistent bad breath
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- A change in the fit of partial dentures
Are There Different Types of Dentures?
There are two main types of dentures, complete and partial.
- Complete dentures replace the full upper or lower set of teeth.
- Partial dentures replace one or more teeth when some of your natural teeth remain.
How Do I Care For My Dentures?
- Keep your twice-yearly dental appointments
- Clean your dentures regularly using a soft bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive cleanser
- Store your dentures in water or a denture-soaking solution to keep their shape, and be sure to rinse them before putting them back in
Taking good care of your dentures will ensure they last from 5 to 10 years.
Let us help you restore your smile. Schedule a consultation with our experienced dental team to see if dentures are right for you. If you already have dentures but want to refit or replace them, we’re here to help you too. Contact our office to set up an appointment today.