Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease in Islip

With all the information that we have about periodontal (gum) disease and overall health, it’s clear that there has never been a more important time to take charge of your oral health than now. Did you know that gum disease could actually contribute to other health concerns in the body such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and high blood pressure? The problem is that most patients aren’t aware of their condition because they don’t know the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease in Islip.

What is Periodontal Disease?

When plaque is not properly removed on a daily basis, it can build up and cause your gum tissue to separate from your teeth. This allows harmful bacteria below your gum line where it attacks the tissues and bone that support your teeth. If it’s not properly treated, it will eventually destroy your bone and lead to tooth loss.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Poor oral hygiene is one of the main causes of gum disease in Islip. This is why visiting your dentist on a regular basis, and brushing and flossing daily with the proper technique is so important. Some other factors also can increase your risk of developing gum disease, and those are:

• Poor nutrition
• Certain medications
• Smoking and tobacco use
• Genetics
• Crooked or misaligned teeth
• Clenching or grinding your teeth at night

How Do I Know I Have Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease is tricky because there’s not a lot of pain or very many symptoms associated with it at first, and it also starts off gradually. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and it’s in this phase that you may notice your gums are red and swollen, they bleed when you brush your teeth, or you have chronic bad breath that won’t go away.

This is the time to contact your dental provider and be proactive about your oral health because if you catch gum disease in its early stage, it can be managed with less invasive treatment. You may, in fact, even be able to reverse it if you act quickly.

Prevention is your first line of defense against gum disease, and there are many things you can do at home to help combat it. Daily brushing and flossing, eating more fruits and vegetables, and regular visits with your dentist twice per year are all great ways to keep gum disease at bay.

At East Islip Dental Care, we’re here to partner with you so you can achieve and maintain optimum oral health for a lifetime. Dr. Gary Rosenfeld, Dr. Julie Boerger, Dr. Jessica Henner, Dr. Michael Wakily, and and Dr. Benjamin Neren are well equipped to address your dental needs. Dr. Jennifer Kraus and Dr. Brandon Katz, our in-house periodontists, are specialists in treating any stage of periodontal disease you may encounter. Give us a call today to schedule your next check up and take charge of your oral health.