Gum Disease Specialist
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Jane Yang Dental, P.C.
General & Cosmetic Dentistry & Dental Implant Specialists located in Chinatown, New York, NY & Brooklyn, NY
Like most things in life, healthy teeth and gums aren’t something that occurs by happenstance. Good at-home oral care and professional dental cleanings can help prevent gum disease. Jane Yang, DDS, and her team at Jane Yang Dental P.C. want to help you get and keep healthy gums. Call one of the offices in Chinatown or Brooklyn, New York, or book your appointment online.
Gum Disease Q & A
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that occurs when the combination of naturally-occurring bacteria in your mouth combines with mucus and other particles to form a sticky, colorless film called plaque. Although some plaque can be removed by flossing and brushing, over time it can build up and harden, so that only a professional dental cleaning can remove it.
If you allow plaque to continue to build up, it damages the gum tissue and bone that supports your teeth. Gum disease is a progressive condition. If left unchecked, it advances to the point where your teeth may become loose, fall out, or need to be extracted.
What is the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis?
Gingivitis is the first and earliest stage of gum disease. At this point, you’ll notice that your gums are inflamed, tender, and may bleed when you brush your teeth. If caught and treated during this stage, gingivitis is completely reversible.
If left untreated gingivitis though, progresses to periodontitis, the next stage of gum disease. During this stage, your gums become painful and swollen. Pockets form between your teeth and gums. Some damage during this stage may be irreversible.
If you have gingivitis or periodontitis, Dr. Yang recommends that you make an appointment right away to be treated to prevent advanced periodontitis. During this last and most severe stage of gum disease, the bone and connective tissue become so damaged that your teeth may need to be extracted.
Can anyone get gum disease?
Many adults suffer from some form of gum disease. There are several risk factors that make some people more prone to developing gum disease, including:
- Being a smoker
- Genetics
- Hormonal changes in women and girls
- Illnesses, such as AIDS and cancer as well as their treatments
- Medications that reduce saliva
If your gums are sensitive or bleed when you brush your teeth, make an appointment to see Dr. Yang right away. You can reverse gum disease, but addressing the issue quickly is very important. Book your appointment online or call today.
