Periodontal disease affects more than 80 percent of adults in the U.S. population and it may not present with any noticeable symptoms. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults.
The disease starts when a bacteria-rich, sticky bio film called plaque builds up on teeth. If the plaque remains untreated, it will turn into calculus (tartar) that can only be removed by a dental professional. This plaque buildup eventually results in pockets, a feature caused by gums detaching from the teeth. This allows more plaque and bacteria to reach further into the tissues and cause infection. Infection may lead to more pain (often there is NO pain), swelling of the gums and damage to the gums, tooth roots and bone. The longer the disease goes untreated, the deeper the pocket will grow, and the bone that surrounds the tooth will resorb or melt and create craters, with eventual loosening of the teeth.
Symptoms of periodontal disease include:
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Sore and/or bleeding gums
- Sensitive teeth
- Gums that are detaching from the teeth causing pockets
- Pain when chewing
- Loose teeth
Call us today at (215) 568-6222 to schedule a cleaning with one of our amazing hygienists. Patients have come through our office and said that the cleaning they had here was the best of their life. We also provide an exam with Dr. Cirka and cavity detecting x-rays (which are FREE for new patients) so we can make sure that all of our patients are in the best oral and overall health. We’ll see you soon!