February 02, 2023

Filed under: Gum Disease Treatment — evergreenteam

Gum disease is a common problem affecting gums and teeth. It can lead to tooth loss, receding gums, and other serious oral health problems. Gum disease treatment is essential to prevent further damage to your teeth and gums. This article will provide an all-inclusive guide on gum disease treatments so that you can make informed decisions about your dental health.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection caused to the tissues in the mouth that hold and support the teeth in place—bacteria, plaque buildup, poor oral hygiene practices, or hormonal changes during pregnancy cause it. Gum disease is painful and dangerous, as it can increase a person’s risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Not treating it can lead to tooth loss, receding gums, and other serious oral health problems.

  • Symptoms of Gum Disease

The most common signs of gum disease are redness/swelling of the gums, bleeding when brushing & flossing, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, sensitive teeth, or pain when eating food. These symptoms should be taken seriously, and you should immediately consult your dentist if you notice any changes in your mouth.

  • Diagnosis

If your dentist suspects you have gum disease, they will examine you for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or receding gums. They may also take an X-ray to look for any damage to the underlying bone structure.

  • Treatment Options

The goal of treatment is to reverse gum disease’s effects and restore oral health. Your dentist will recommend a treatment plan based on the severity of your condition and overall health. Depending on the type and stage of your gum disease, treatments may include antibiotics, deep cleaning, tooth extractions, or surgery. It would help if you discussed all available treatment options with your dentist before deciding.

Home Care Tips To Prevent Gum Disease

You can reduce your risk of developing gum disease by practicing good oral hygiene habits and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups.

  • Brush Twice a Day

Brushing your teeth two times daily with fluoride toothpaste removes plaque buildup and helps keep your gums healthy. Make sure to brush all surfaces of the teeth, including the back molars, and avoid touching them too hard, as this can cause damage to the enamel.

  • Floss Daily

Flossing daily is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. It removes food particles and plaque between teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach. When flossing, use gentle pressure and reach right under the gum line.

  • Use a Mouthwash

Mouthwashes are an effective way to reduce plaque buildup, remove bacteria and freshen breath. Choose one that contains fluoride or antiseptic ingredients for added protection against gum disease.

Professional Gum Disease Treatment

If you experience any symptoms of gum disease, it is essential to seek professional treatment as soon as possible before the damage becomes worse. Gum treatments can be performed in your dentist’s office or at a specialist periodontist clinic.

  • Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing (SRP) is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque, calculus, and bacterial toxins from above and below the gum line. It is generally performed under local anesthetic and may require multiple sessions to be fully effective.

  • Gum Surgery

Gum surgery may be necessary if your gum disease is severe or not responding to other treatments. Gum surgery involves reshaping and removing affected tissue and grafting new tissue onto the area to repair any damage.

  • Antibiotic Therapy

Antibiotics control bacterial infections in the mouth and can help reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling associated with gum disease. Your dentist may recommend a course of antibiotics for you to take orally or apply directly to the gums.

Gum disease is a severe condition affecting millions of people annually. If it is not treated, it can lead to tooth loss and other health complications. That is why it is essential to practice good oral hygiene habits & visit your dentist for regular check-ups. Gum treatments such as scaling and root planing, gum surgery, and antibiotic therapy are effective ways to treat the disease, but prevention is always better than cure.

FAQs:

Q1: What are the symptoms of gum disease?

A1: The most common symptoms of gum disease are redness or swelling of the gums, bleeding when brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, and pain when eating food.

Q2: How often should I brush my teeth?

A2: You should brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste & floss daily.

Q3 How can I prevent gum disease?

A3: The best way to prevent gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene habits like brushing & flossing regularly, using mouthwash, and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups.

 

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