Over 64 million Americans suffer from it: periodontal disease. The worst part is that most people don’t even realize they have it, or even know what it is. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and teeth. Periodontal disease is treatable, but it’s better to catch it as soon as possible because if left untreated for too long, you could end up needing surgery.
If your gums are healthy, they should fit nicely around your teeth. They should be pale pink and firm. If you’re suffering from any of the following symptoms, you should contact a periodontist in New Haven, CT immediately.
If your gums are swollen, bright red, puffy, or tender to the touch, you should seek the help of a periodontist. If it hurts to chew, or if you have new spaces in between your teeth, you could possibly have periodontal disease. There are several kinds of periodontal disease, but there are three that are most common.
Chronic Periodontitis
This type is caused by plaque buildup and causes your teeth to deteriorate over time. If you want an amazing periodontist to address this problem, read more about Friends and Family Dental.
Aggressive Periodontitis
This type typically starts in childhood or young adulthood. It usually affects families and if it’s not treated by a periodontist, it could cause rapid tooth and bone loss.
Necrotizing Periodontal Disease
Lack of blood supply to the affected area causes the death of gum tissue, the supporting bone, and tooth ligaments.
Regular flossing, brushing at least twice a day, and regular check-ups with a dentist could prevent periodontal disease from occurring. Having healthy teeth is essential to your overall health, so make sure you’re practicing good oral hygiene or you’ll regret it later in life.