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I've been a patient for years, and feel like they really care about me.

- Gwin W.

Periodontal Disease Longview

Gum disease, gingivitis, and periodontitis are all commonly used terms. While the term gum disease can apply to both gingivitis and periodontitis, they are very different conditions.

Gingivitis

This is the earliest form of gum disease. It is typically the result of improper oral hygiene. When your teeth are not brushed properly or worse yet, not at all, plaque is allowed to build up on the surface of the teeth and when left long enough, it will turn into tartar. The plaque and tartar are full of bacteria that cause gum irritation and infection.

Gingivitis is painless; so many patients do not realize they have it until it is too late. If you notice pink on your toothbrush, bleeding gums, swelling, or darkening of your gums, you should schedule an appointment at Rea Dental. It is important to seek treatment early because gingivitis can be successfully treated.

Periodontitis

If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. This stage of gum disease cannot be reversed, but with proper care, it is controllable and future damage can be prevented. The symptoms are the same as those associated with gingivitis but you are likely to experience an unexplainable bad taste in your mouth. You will likely notice your gum tissue beginning to recede, which forms pockets between your teeth and gums that can trap plaque and food particles. These pockets can result in the growth of microorganisms that destroy bone and tissue.

Once damage is done to the bone, it is normally classified as advanced periodontitis, which is the most serious stage. You are likely to experience pockets of puss, sensitive loose teeth, and possible tooth loss.

Treatment

When caught early gingivitis can be reversed because damage to the gum tissue or bone loss has yet occurred. Treatment typically involves an exam, a thorough cleaning, and instructions regarding at home oral hygiene.

In the case of periodontitis, it cannot be reversed, but with proper care, future damage can be prevented. Dr. F. Dee Rea may recommend root planing and scaling to smooth the roots and remove tartar below the gum line. It may be recommended that you receive more frequent cleanings and checkups.

Periodontal Disease is serious; it not only affects your oral health, but also increases your risk for heart disease, stroke, and many more conditions. Longview residents, if you suffer from a form of gum disease, Dr. Karen Frazer Rea and Dr. F. Dee Rea can prevent it from further damaging your health. Give us a call at 903.753.3531 and schedule an appointment.
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