Gum Disease Treatment
- Over 30 Years of Experience
- Locally Owned
Protect Your Health With Gum Disease Treatments
Did you know that gum disease can have serious health effects beyond causing your teeth to loosen and fall out? Research has shown that periodontal disease is connected to a wide variety of health problems that go far beyond your teeth and gums.
If you suffer from gum disease, come to North Mississippi Periodontics and Implant Dentistry. We have more than 30 years of experience in treating it, and Dr. Robertson uses the very latest in medical procedures. Call our office today to book your appointment. Emergency appointments are available.
Stages of Gum Disease
Studies have shown that around 75% of Americans have some form of gum disease. There are several stages of gum disease, and we provide care for all of them.
Stage 1: Gingivitis
The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. It's caused by plaque buildup around your gum line that leads to inflammation. It can be identified by several common symptoms:
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
Gingivitis can be prevented with good oral care, including regular brushing and flossing.
Stage 2: Periodontitis
When gingivitis is left untreated, it's likely to turn into periodontitis, a more serious condition in which the bones and fibers that support your teeth have been irreversibly damaged. Pockets form in the gums around your teeth and trap food, plaque, and bacteria. Your gums begin to recede and create gaps around your teeth. If you have periodontitis, immediate medical treatment is required to stop the infection and prevent tooth loss and further damage.
Stage 3: Advanced Periodontitis
The most serious form of gum disease is advanced periodontitis, a condition in which the bacteria has grown and destroyed connective tissues and bones that support your teeth. You may experience loose or shifting teeth. Aggressive, immediate treatment is required.
Dangers of Gum Disease
Gum disease means that the tissues in your mouth have active, living bacteria that are causing an infection. Because the systems of your body are interconnected, gum disease can lead to or exacerbate a variety of medical conditions. While some of the research is inconclusive, periodontal disease may be linked to a number of serious medical issues.
- Tooth loss — Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the US.
- Heart disease, ischemic stroke, respiratory disease, head and neck cancer, kidney disease, pancreatic cancer — Gum disease may increase your risk for any or all of these conditions as the bacteria that cause it travel throughout your bloodstream. If these conditions develop independently, your body must fight them and the gum disease, further stressing your ability to heal.
- Diabetes — Diabetes can reduce your ability to fight infections, so gum disease can be worse in diabetics. Untreated periodontal disease may also make it more difficult to control blood sugar levels.
- Pre-term delivery and babies with low birth weights — Some research has indicated a link between gingivitis and pre-term deliveries or babies with low birth weights. We can help you include good oral health as part of your prenatal care.
Learn More About
North Mississippi Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
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