Diagnosing gum disease at the onset

Gum disease is a common condition that starts mildly but can be serious if it is allowed to progress. That’s why early diagnosis is critical to successful management of the disease.

Healthy gums and healthy teeth are the hallmark of good oral health. We are often highly concerned about our teeth, adhering to the basic oral care routines such as brushing, flossing, and rinsing. However, it’s easy to take the gums for granted. Only when something is wrong do you notice that your gums may not be healthy after all.

Gum disease affects thousands of people around the world. It is one of the most common oral problems, and yet, some people don’t seem to realize there is cause for concern. It is important that gum disease, or periodontal disease, as it is also known, is diagnosed by a dentist and quickly addressed.

The initial symptoms of gum disease can be misleading. Sensitivity and irritation are two common signs that you are suffering from this condition. Bleeding also can occur. If you experience these symptoms, do not dismiss them or try to make excuses for them. Seek dental assistance promptly. It can make a world of difference. The initial stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, is curable but later stages are not. They can only be managed and at its worst, you can lose many of your teeth. Your teeth will need to be carefully monitored if you reach the advanced stages of gum disease, referred to as periodontitis. An extensive treatment plan and tailored at home care can improve your situation but you can never go back to how it was before the disease began.

Dentists routinely recommend check-ups every 6 months. This way, any signs will be noticed early. However, if you are not one to keep up with regular check-ups you are more at risk of developing gum disease and not knowing it. The symptoms are easy to miss, especially because they don’t include much pain.

Dentists now have patient examinations that emphasize detection and prevention of gum disease. A full periodontal charting is carried out when you visit for a regular checkup. Here are some of the specific tasks that are performed:

• Measuring the gums and looking for gum recession
• Looking out for periodontal pockets (where harmful bacteria reside) and if they exist, measuring the pocket depth
• Checking for telltale symptoms, such as irritation and bleeding
• Checking for loose teeth
• Assessing the overall health of the gums
• Taking x-rays to check the non-visible area underneath the gums

All these methods help in correct diagnosis and tailoring a treatment plan.

Philadelphia is home to a well-known and favored dentistry practice that offers exceptional care to patients. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, patients will feel as if they were at home. Among the many services that are offered by this practice is Invisalign, Porcelain Veneers, Dental Implants, Gum Disease treatments, Cosmetic Dentistry, and Restorative Dentistry. Read more on: Philadelphia PA dentists.

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