February is Gum Disease Awareness Month. With 85% of adults dealing with some form of gum disease, it is more important than ever to schedule an appointment with Dr. Brown. Gum disease is a subtle condition that many people do not even realize they are dealing with. Do not shrug off gum disease as something that will simply pass. If left untreated, gum disease can worsen and you could end up losing your teeth.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is caused by bacteria and plaque left in the mouth. The bacteria and plaque start to infect the gum tissue, leading to pain and inflammation. Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss and normally begins without symptoms. Most people do not recognize they have gum disease until it is past the point of quick, at-home treatments.
What Does Gum Disease Look Like?
How do you know if you have gum disease? It normally begins as a slow condition with the following symptoms:
- Bleeding gums
- Red or swollen gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums pulling away from the teeth
Visiting our periodontics office is the best way to diagnose gum disease and to determine the best treatment. Early stages of gum disease can be reversed with in-office treatments like scaling and root planing along with at-home dental care. Severe gum disease cases may require advanced treatments.
Gum Disease Risk Factors
Gum disease is often caused from lifestyle habits and health risk factors including diabetes and pregnancy. If you are involved in lifestyle habits like smoking, it will increase the risk of gum disease. Poor oral health habits are one of the leading causes of gum disease as the plaque and bacteria needs to be removed from the teeth and gums to prevent additional problems.
Treating Gum Disease
The best thing you can do is treat gum disease early to prevent it from worsening. Philadelphia Periodontist Dr. I. Stephen Brown specializes in gum disease treatment. Dr. Brown is certified in LANAP, an advanced treatment for individuals with gum disease.
What is LANAP?
LANAP is a FDA-cleared treatment designed to treat gum disease. It is less painful compared to alternative gum disease treatments including flap surgery. LANAP is scientifically proven to treat gum disease and regenerate new bone growth. LANAP is successful because it targets the source of inflammation without causing damage to the other areas of the mouth. Patients report LANAP to be less painful and provide a faster recovery time. Contact us to schedule an appointment to discuss your gum disease treatment needs.