How Gingerbread Cookies Can Lead to Gum Disease
December 13, 2017
When most people think of the holidays, they conjure up images of cookies, shopping, and time spent with friends and family. Our office, however, associates those gingerbread cookies and other seasonal sweets with a more sinister connection: gum disease. Baked treats can lead to gum disease and other health concerns, but you can fight back with laser gum surgery.
Sugar and Plaque Buildup
Partaking in too many gingerbread cookies puts tremendous strain on teeth and poses risks to gum health. As you eat more, sugar accumulates on teeth and around the gum line. This sugar then deteriorates into tartar and plaque, which eat away at your teeth and gum tissue and cause decay. If the problem persists long enough, consequences can be permanent.
Understanding Symptoms of Gingivitis and Periodontitis
Over time, sugar and plaque deposits lead to mild to serious health problems. The most common results are the temporary condition of gingivitis and the permanent condition of periodontitis. These forms of gum disease have similar symptoms, including:
- Bleeding gums
- Gum recession
- Persistent bad breath
- Red, swollen gums
- Shifting teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
Advanced periodontitis can also cause tooth loss. It is important to see your doctor to evaluate the extent of the damage.
Using Laser Gum Surgery to Treat Periodontitis
Laser gum surgery is a minimally-invasive process that allows a majority of patients to recover within 24 hours. First, your periodontist will probe tooth pockets to determine depth. Then, he or she will move a laser over the affected areas to clean pockets and use small tools to eliminate tartar buildup. If necessary, your doctor will adjust for bite.
After the procedure, gums begin to heal immediately. Other benefits include fewer trips to the periodontist’s office, no incisions, minimal discomfort, and safety for patients with health concerns.
Contact Us For More Information
The best way to stop gum disease is to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Tokarczyk as soon as possible. Contact our office in Springfield, MO to make an appointment.