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During your bi-yearly trip to the dentist, your dental care provider performs a number of oral health tests, including screening for oral cancer, checking for cavities, and determining whether you have gum disease. Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, affects nearly half of American adults and can range from mild to severe. The team at Sarah E. Frye, DDS, PA, in Lexington, NC, routinely works with patients who have been diagnosed with gum disease. Below, they share some facts about periodontitis and how it’s treated.

Facts About Gum Disease

1. It Is the Leading Cause of Tooth Decay

For patients with gum disease, plaque and other bacteria stick to the surface of the gums. This plaque can spread throughout the gums and onto the teeth and supporting jawbone. Over time, this can cause teeth to decay, loosen, and eventually fall out.

2. Common Symptoms Include Swollen or Bleeding Gums

The most common signs of periodontal disease are inflammation of the gums, tenderness, and bleeding. You may notice this bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating. These symptoms are a reaction to the gum infection and subside with appropriate dental intervention and treatment.

3. Routine Oral Hygiene Can Prevent This Condition

dentistAlthough some individuals are more prone to developing periodontal disease than others, regular oral hygiene is the most effective way of preventing this condition. Brushing twice daily and flossing once a day prevents the build-up of plaque and bacteria. Additionally, visiting your dentist twice a year for a routine cleaning and oral exam helps identify periodontal concerns early and determine the best course of treatment.

4. Treatment Options May Vary

Treatment for gum disease varies depending on the extent of your infection. For patients who have early signs of the condition, a dentist may recommend improved oral care habits to prevent it from worsening. In more advanced cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to stop the spread of the infection. Deep cleanings are often used to clear bacteria from the gums and roots of the teeth. In severe cases where gum recession has already begun to take place, interventional surgery may be used.

If you are struggling with gum disease and would like to visit a dentist who specializes in this concern, contact Sarah E. Frye, DDS, PA. This general and cosmetic dentistry expert specializes in early interventions and preventative procedures. To learn more about this practice’s services, including teeth whitening and Invisalign®, visit their website or call (336) 248-5057 today to schedule your appointment.

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