Periodontal (Gum) Disease – Union Street

Periodontal (Gum) Disease

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Bean Queen
Bean Queen
5.0
July 24, 2023

This is a great dentist to go to. I’m not exactly sure about prices, but I am aware that they take Green Mountain Medicaid, which is my insurance. I’m very grateful for this because not a lot of dentist offices near by take my insurance, which can be really difficult. They have a nice waiting room, with multiple chairs, plants, and even a TV!

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Vin Brooks
Vin Brooks
5.0
July 17, 2023

Good and friendly service

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angela walsh
angela walsh
5.0
May 23, 2023

Very quick if you have anxiety about pain he gives ALOT of novacain

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Whitney Gregory
Whitney Gregory
5.0
March 30, 2023

This dentist has the patients best interest at hand. They are friendly and understanding. I highly recommend

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Alexis Knight
Alexis Knight
5.0
February 28, 2023

My experience here was good. I went for a cleaning today and Emily was super sweet. Jessica is also always great. The staff is always very nice too.

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Jennifer Free
Jennifer Free
5.0
February 27, 2023

Dr. Alexander is an amazing dentist. He helped my 14 year old daughter build her confidence by repairing some problematic teeth she had that affected her smile. He even helped us secure transportation once because he was concerned about my daughter's well-being after having some major work done!!!! He made sure she received the care she needed when we otherwise wouldn't have been able to be there. Both my daughter's think very highly of Dr. Alexander. As do I.

Periodontal Disease: The Silent Threat to Your Oral Health

Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Importance of Early Intervention

Your smile is a reflection of your overall health and well-being. Healthy teeth and gums not only contribute to a beautiful smile but also play a vital role in maintaining your overall health. However, there’s a silent threat that can jeopardize your oral health – periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. At Union Street Dental, we believe that knowledge is the key to prevention and early intervention. Let’s explore what periodontal disease is, its causes, symptoms, and the importance of seeking timely dental care.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is a progressive bacterial infection that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It begins with inflammation of the gum tissue (gingivitis) and, if left untreated, can advance to more severe stages, causing irreversible damage to the gums and underlying bone.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

The primary cause of periodontal disease is the accumulation of plaque – a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. When plaque is not regularly removed through proper oral hygiene practices, it hardens into tartar (calculus), which cannot be eliminated with brushing and flossing alone. Tartar provides a favorable environment for bacteria to thrive and irritate the gums, leading to gingivitis. Other risk factors that can contribute to the development and progression of periodontal disease include:

  • Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing, flossing, and lack of regular dental check-ups can increase the risk of gum disease.
  • Tobacco Use: Smoking and chewing tobacco can hinder the healing of gum tissue and increase the severity of periodontal disease.
  • Genetics: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to developing periodontal disease.
  • Systemic Health Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and immune disorders, can increase the risk of gum disease.
  • Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or menopause can make gums more susceptible to inflammation.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

In its early stages, periodontal disease may not present noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, the following signs may become evident:

  • Gums that Bleed Easily: Especially during brushing, flossing, or eating hard foods.
  • Swollen or Tender Gums: Inflammation and discomfort in the gum tissue.
  • Receding Gums: Gums that pull away from the teeth, making the teeth appear longer.
  • Persistent Bad Breath: Foul-smelling breath that doesn’t improve with oral hygiene.
  • Changes in Tooth Alignment: Teeth may shift or become loose as the gum and bone support weakens.
  • Pus between Teeth and Gums: A sign of infection and advanced gum disease.
  • Changes in Bite and Fit of Dentures: Due to the loss of gum and bone support.

Importance of Early Intervention

Timely intervention and treatment are critical in managing and halting the progression of periodontal disease. If left untreated, it can lead to serious consequences, including tooth loss and potential adverse effects on your overall health. Research has also linked periodontal disease to an increased risk of various systemic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes complications, and respiratory issues.

Prevention and Treatment

Preventing periodontal disease starts with maintaining good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. If diagnosed with periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend various treatment options based on the severity of the condition. These treatments may include scaling and root planing, antibiotics, gum surgery, and other specialized procedures to restore gum health.

Periodontal disease is a significant threat to oral health that requires prompt attention and appropriate care. At Union Street Dental, we prioritize preventive care and early intervention to safeguard your smile and overall well-being. Regular dental check-ups are essential in detecting and addressing gum disease at its early stages. If you suspect any symptoms of gum disease or have concerns about your oral health, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our experienced dental team. Together, we can protect your smile from the silent threat of periodontal disease and set you on the path to lifelong oral health.

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