Why Dentistry is Like an Iceberg

Dental care is more complex than most patients understand. You may look at your bright, shining teeth in the mirror and believe there is no cause for concern. However, beneath the gum line, problems could be growing.

Many dentists liken teeth to an iceberg, with hidden depths below the surface. Many people concentrate on the condition of the teeth above the gum line, but this is only part of the story. To fully understand your dental health, you must also consider gum health.

If your gums exhibit unhealthy symptoms, you may be setting yourself up for serious future problems, including tooth loss. Periodontal disease puts your teeth in danger and can lead to health problems like high blood pressure, preterm birth, and diabetes.

It would be best to watch out for the following signs indicating periodontal disease is forming:

Red, Swollen, Tender Gums

You may have gingivitis if you notice that your gums have developed these symptoms. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. Fortunately, you can reverse gingivitis with careful home care and professional attention.

Bleeding Gums

If you develop periodontal disease, your gums may bleed when brushed or flossed. This symptom is another common sign of gingivitis. Even children may develop this sign of gum disease.

If you notice bleeding gums, step up your home care routine of brushing and flossing and see us as soon as possible for a professional cleaning. If you enhance your home care procedures, you may be able to reverse this dangerous condition.

Bad Breath

Periodontal disease causes bad breath due to chronic infections along the gum line. An unpleasant taste in your mouth may linger and not respond to mouthwash or mints. If you have persistent bad breath, even if you lack other signs of periodontal disease, consult a dentist.

Receding Gums

You may have advanced periodontal disease if your gums have begun to recede or pull away from the teeth. It would be best if you sought treatment immediately to prevent the dangerous effects of gum recession on your teeth.

More Space Between Teeth

As periodontal disease advances, you may notice that you have more space between your teeth. Sometimes the spaces between your teeth may resemble black triangles. More space between teeth is another sign that you need immediate treatment.

Loose Teeth

Adults should never have loose teeth. If your teeth are becoming loose, we can splint them to their neighbors to help them replant into the gum. However, you will also need extensive gum treatment.

Understanding Gum Health

As we have demonstrated, dentistry can be like studying an iceberg. Hidden problems below the surface, like the onset of periodontal disease, could significantly impact your oral health. We want you to keep your teeth for a lifetime, so we recommend aggressive treatment of periodontal disease.

Call Whitby Dental Studio

You can control or reverse periodontal disease with careful treatment, preserving your healthy, natural teeth for a lifetime. Even if you already have symptoms, call our office at 905-666-2750 for an evaluation and to begin receiving care.