Do you want to find the best Dentist in Michigan? Look no further – Birmingham Dental is here for all your dental needs! You can trust that our team is committed to giving you the best care possible no matter your dental needs in Birmingham – including everything from gum disease treatment to cosmetic care! Our modern office uses the latest digital imaging technology, providing our patients with superior-quality care.
And did you know that February is National Gum Disease Awareness Month? Here at Birmingham Dental, we are raising awareness of how important it is to watch out for this serious oral health condition. Unfortunately, gum disease affects nearly half of adults over 30 in the United States. This month, we want to help educate our patients and their families about why paying attention to their gums and teeth are so important.
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection that targets your gums, causing inflammation and pain. It can start as a mild form called gingivitis but become severe if left untreated. The leading cause of gum disease is bacteria buildup due to poor oral hygiene habits, such as not brushing or flossing enough. Other contributing factors include smoking, diabetes, stress, pregnancy, and genetics. That’s why early detection is vital in preventing gum disease from progressing.
Signs & Symptoms of Gum Disease
The symptoms of gum disease vary depending on its severity. Common signs include redness or swelling in the gums, bad breath that won’t go away even after brushing, receding gums (they appear longer than normal), loose teeth, pain when eating, or bleeding when brushing or flossing. If you notice any of these symptoms, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Birmingham Dental immediately!
Preventing & Treating Gum Disease
Prevention is always better than cure! To prevent gum disease from developing in the first place, practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day for two minutes at a time and flossing daily. And come see us regularly so we can check your teeth and gums too! Eating a balanced diet and avoiding tobacco use can also reduce the risk of gum disease occurring.
Effective ways for us to treat gum disease include antibiotics along with scaling and root planing. Scaling removes plaque and tartar accumulation from above and below the gum line, and root planing smoothes out any irregularities that can lead to bacteria lingering in your mouth. During this procedure, you’ll be asked about your comfort level so we can use local anesthesia to make you as relaxed as possible.
Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease resulting in inflammation around the teeth and can cause irreversible damage if left untreated for too long. Symptoms include:
- Gums that are tender or easily bleed when touched.
- Receding gums.
- Bad breath.
- Pockets of infection form between the gaps of the teeth and gums.
Gum Disease Treatment in Birmingham
Birmingham Dental takes your dental health seriously all year round—not just during National Gum Disease Awareness Month! Now that you know more about what causes gum disease and signs to look out for make sure you keep up with your own dental health routine every day so that you can avoid any potential problems down the line. Remember—prevention is better than cure! Reach out today if you have any questions or concerns about your oral health; our team would be happy to help!
Our goal is always patient satisfaction, and we have the tools and expertise necessary to provide it – so don’t worry if something goes wrong. We will help set it right without fail! Contact us today and get ready for a fantastic experience with Dr. Coburn or Dr. Sgalia, two of the best dentists in the area!
