How Gum Disease Develops
When a person develops gum disease, it is because certain oral bacteria have been allowed to linger in the mouth and on teeth near the gum line. These bacteria will inflame the gums, causing gingivitis, and if they are not removed, they can cause further damage by attacking the ligaments and tissues that support teeth. As these important supporting structures deteriorate, teeth can loosen, and may eventually be lost or require extraction. Thus, in order to prevent her patients’ oral health from deteriorating to this point, your Ankeny IA dentist, Dr. Amanda Foust, educates her patients about the symptoms of gum disease and encourages them to clean their teeth thoroughly to rid their mouths of harmful oral bacteria.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
The symptoms by which you can identify gum disease will vary based on how far the disease has progressed. For gingivitis, for instance, gum irritation, red gums, and some bleeding may be common symptoms. However, if gum disease has advanced to periodontitis, its most damaging form, such symptoms as lingering bad breath, the development of pockets between teeth and the gums, shifting teeth, and even tooth loss may be present. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important that you report them to your Ankeny IA dentist, Dr. Foust, so that you can receive prompt dental care.
Gum Disease Prevention
Ideally, you should work to prevent gum disease so that actual gum disease treatments, like periodontal cleanings or gum surgery, are rendered unnecessary. Preventing gum disease requires you to clean your mouth thoroughly to keep bad bacteria from lingering on your teeth and around your gums. Thus, you must brush your teeth 2-3 times per day, paying special attention to the areas around the gum line, and floss at least once per day. You should also visit Dr. Foust regularly for dental cleanings, which prove very valuable because they focus on removing tartar, a bacteria-ridden substance that neither a toothbrush nor dental floss can easily remove.
About Dr. Amanda Foust: Dr. Amanda Foust is a graduate of the University of Iowa School of Dentistry. She opened Dental Impressions of Ankeny in 2006 and has since strived to bring quality dental care to area families. Patients can schedule an appointment or a consultation with Dr. Foust by calling (515) 965-0230.
