We’ve been discussing gum disease lately because we want to amplify how important it is to take care of your gums. As we keep saying, healthy gums mean a strong, healthy smile! In fact, your dentist can help you identify gum problems early on with an easy diagnosis from your dentist during your dental checkup. Learn more about how your dentist in Reno can help you preserve your gum health!
Why is it important to diagnose gingivitis?
The earliest stage of gum disease (gingivitis) is usually accompanied by tender, swollen, red, bleeding gums. Sometimes these symptoms can go ignored or unnoticed if you don’t have a dentist that you normally visit.
If you suspect you may be suffering from gum disease, your dentist will be able to make the appropriate diagnosis with an effective dental checkup.
What happens when you don’t treat gingivitis?
The beginning of gum disease and should always be treated or else it can develop into gum infections and advanced gum disease (periodontal disease). As gum disease progresses into periodontal disease, bacteria spreads below the gum line, infecting the roots of your teeth and jawbone. Once this happens, you are faced with receding gums, tooth decay and even worse—tooth loss!
How does your dentist diagnose gingivitis?
Examining Gums
Visual signs of gum disease include redness and swelling of your soft tissues. Your dentist will check for these as well as any signs of bleeding while they’re completing your deep professional cleaning.
A sign that gum disease has gotten worse is tooth sensitivity. Sensitivity shows that your gums are receding, exposing the roots of your teeth. Your dentist can see if your gums have begun to recede. Your dentist will also question if you have noticed any twinging pain associated with eating any hot or cold foods and drinks.
Measuring Gum Pockets
When your gums are healthy, the pockets surrounding your teeth measure anywhere from one to three millimeters in depth. Your dentist can measure the pockets surrounding your teeth during your dental exams. If your Reno dentist notices any pockets larger than three millimeters are an indication of gum disease. The bigger they are, the worse the condition of your gum disease.
X-Rays
Finally, another way to diagnose gum disease is through helpful dental x-rays. X-rays allow your dentist to see areas that are otherwise invisible to untrained eyes, including between teeth, below the gum line and the structures of the jawbone. With these images of your inner and outer structures, your dentist can check the strength of your jawbone, checking to see if it’s stability has been affected by gum disease.
If you suspect that you have any signs of gum disease, feel free to contact your local dental office. Diagnosis is the first step to realizing you need treatment. The exact periodontal treatment plan you receive will depend on how far gone your condition is. Contact your local dentist today!
About Our Office
When you choose to visit Sage Dental Care, you can be confident that your dentist will have your best interest at heart. We will be proactive during your checkups and cleanings, addressing any and all concerns to optimize your oral health. Feel free to contact our office to schedule your next appointment.