Gum Disease: Symptoms, Treatments, and Finding the Right Dentist

Q: Gum Disease: Symptoms, Treatments, and Finding the Right Dentist

Hello： Based on your description, your periodontal disease has likely progressed to a moderate stage. <br>The signs of periodontal disease initially include bleeding and swollen gums when brushing, which can progress to more severe symptoms such as pus formation and even tooth mo

There are large gaps between the teeth?

Five years ago, one morning, while brushing my teeth, I bit down on something and discovered it was a piece of tartar that had fallen off.
From that moment on, I started to regularly visit the dentist every six months.
However, both dentists I saw noticed that my lower teeth had some noticeable gaps.
After moving, I became pregnant and did not see a dentist for a year and a half until recently, when I went due to severe gum pain that had worsened.
I also took a full-mouth X-ray because the nurse asked if I wanted one.
The dentist then informed me that the gaps at the roots of my teeth were quite large and that I had severe periodontal disease.
The dentist even asked if I had never seen a dentist before.
My questions are: 1.
Can periodontal disease be visually detected? 2.
My gums are slightly swollen.
A previous dentist mentioned that was caused by tartar.
If there is pus inside the gums, the dentist said that means the teeth are not being cleaned properly.
Does periodontal disease also cause the surface to appear red and swollen? 3.
The gaps between my front teeth were not this large before; they are now quite unsightly.
What kind of surgery should I consider to address the appearance of my front teeth? Lastly, what qualities should I look for in a professional and conscientious dentist? Besides visual examination and X-rays, what other methods should be used for diagnosis?

Mi Tang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/03/05

Dr. Yang Zhiren reply Dentistry

Hello: Based on your description, your periodontal disease has likely progressed to a moderate stage.
The signs of periodontal disease initially include bleeding and swollen gums when brushing, which can progress to more severe symptoms such as pus formation and even tooth mobility.
Visibly swollen gums are typically caused by dental calculus.
Clinically, in addition to visual examination by the dentist, periodontal probing is performed to measure the depth of the periodontal pockets, and X-rays are taken to assess the bone loss around the teeth.
After the treatment of periodontal disease, once the overall periodontal condition is stable, orthodontic treatment or prosthetics can be used to close the gaps between the teeth.
Dr.
Yang Zhiren, Chief of Dentistry at Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2009/03/05

More Info

Understanding gum disease is crucial for maintaining oral health, especially considering the symptoms and treatments available. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It can lead to tooth loss if not treated properly. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the symptoms, treatments, and how to find the right dentist for your needs.

Symptoms of Gum Disease
1. Swollen or Red Gums: One of the earliest signs of gum disease is the swelling and redness of the gums. Healthy gums should be firm and pale pink. If your gums are red and swollen, it may indicate gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease.

2. Bleeding Gums: If you notice bleeding while brushing or flossing, this is a significant warning sign. Healthy gums do not bleed, and persistent bleeding can indicate a more serious condition.

3. Persistent Bad Breath: Halitosis, or bad breath, can be a symptom of gum disease. This occurs due to the buildup of bacteria in the mouth.

4. Receding Gums: If your gums are pulling away from your teeth, exposing more of the tooth or the tooth root, this is a sign of gum disease. This can also lead to increased sensitivity.

5. Loose Teeth: Advanced gum disease can cause teeth to become loose due to the loss of bone support.

6. Pus Between Teeth and Gums: The presence of pus is a clear indication of infection and requires immediate dental attention.

Treatments for Gum Disease
1. Professional Cleaning: The first step in treating gum disease is a professional dental cleaning. This involves removing plaque and tartar from your teeth and below the gum line.

2. Scaling and Root Planing: For more advanced cases, scaling and root planing may be necessary. This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from deep pockets around the teeth and smooths the tooth roots to help gums reattach.

3. Antibiotics: Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help control bacterial infection. These can be in the form of topical gels or oral medications.

4. Surgery: In severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary. This can include flap surgery, where the gums are lifted back to remove tartar, or bone grafting to restore lost bone.

5. Maintenance: Regular dental visits for cleanings and check-ups are essential for maintaining gum health.

Finding the Right Dentist
When looking for a dentist, consider the following:
1. Qualifications and Experience: Look for a dentist who specializes in periodontics or has significant experience in treating gum disease.

2. Patient Reviews: Online reviews can provide insight into the dentist's practice and patient care.

3. Communication: A good dentist should be willing to explain your condition, treatment options, and answer any questions you may have.

4. Technology and Techniques: Inquire about the technology used in the practice. Modern techniques and tools can lead to better outcomes.

5. Follow-Up Care: Ensure the dentist has a plan for follow-up care and maintenance after treatment.

Additional Diagnostic Tools
In addition to visual examinations and X-rays, dentists may use other diagnostic tools to assess gum health:
- Periodontal Probing: This involves measuring the depth of the gum pockets around each tooth to determine the extent of gum disease.

- Cone Beam CT Scans: These provide a 3D image of the teeth and jawbone, allowing for a more detailed assessment of periodontal health.

- Salivary Tests: These can help identify specific bacteria associated with gum disease.

Conclusion
Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to significant oral health issues if left untreated. Regular dental visits, good oral hygiene practices, and understanding the symptoms can help you manage and prevent gum disease effectively. If you suspect you have gum disease, seek professional dental advice promptly to avoid further complications.

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