Thompson Advanced Dentistry specializes in preventing, managing, and treating gum disease at their dentist office located near Johnstown, CO. Dr. Joseph Thompson is an experienced restorative dentist and is dedicated to keeping his patient’s smiles healthy and functional. Gum disease is a progressive disease that can lead to tooth loss and issues with your overall physical health.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is mostly seen in people who have poor oral hygiene habits or who avoid the dentist. If plaque is not removed from the teeth, it will harden into a substance called tartar. Plaque and tartar are filled with bacteria that can grow and spread deep into the gums. Pockets of bacteria-filled infection will develop causing the gums to separate from the teeth. This can lead to serious damage to the gums, underlying bone, and teeth.
Stages of Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis
The first stage of periodontal disease that often goes unnoticed is gingivitis. Here the gums can be red or swollen or they may feel irritated or inflamed. Most people with gingivitis will suffer from bleeding gums especially while brushing and flossing. Gingivitis is very treatable if caught early.
Periodontitis
If the signs and symptoms of gingivitis are ignored and the gums are left untreated, this progressive disease will turn into periodontitis. Periodontitis is an advanced stage of periodontal disease and should not be ignored. Here, deep pockets have formed along the gum line, the gums are inflamed and the underlying bone is most likely affected. Deep cleaning is needed to remove all plaque and tartar from the teeth especially along the gum line to prevent more damage.
Advanced Periodontitis
Advanced periodontitis is a very serious condition that must be treated immediately. At this stage of gum disease, most of the damage is irreversible. Very deep pockets have formed along the gums causing them to pull away from the teeth. This leaves the underlying bone exposed to bacteria and bone loss is inevitable. Tooth loss is also likely.
The Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
At every routine dentist appointment, Dr. Thompson will examine your gums for signs of gum disease. Some people have this disease and may not even be aware. However, there are a few obvious signs and symptoms that should never be ignored. If you notice any of the following, please contact our Johnstown, CO area dentist office to schedule a visit:
- Red, swollen or sore gums
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Sores or pus between gums and teeth
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Changes in the fit of dental appliances such as dentures
Schedule an Appointment
If you have concerns about the health of your gums and are looking for a local Johnstown, CO area dentist office, please contact Thompson Advanced Dentistry for a periodontal screening and consultation. Here, he will offer the appropriate treatment that will target your individual needs. Dr. Thompson offers treatment for gum disease for all members of your family, no matter what age. Contact our office at 970.205.9614 to schedule an appointment.