Gum disease is a prevalent oral health issue globally, yet a considerable number of individuals are unaware that they have it. Research suggests that more than 50% of adults in Western countries are presently experiencing gum disease. Moreover, many individuals who are not currently affected by gum disease may develop the condition at some point in their adult life. We wrote a recent about Periodontal Disease.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a term used to describe a group of diseases that impact the gums, teeth, and bones. This condition leads to inflammation of the gums and can cause severe health problems.
Bleeding gums during brushing or observing redness and swelling in the gums are typically the first signs of gum disease. Additionally, gum disease can cause bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. As the disease progresses, teeth may feel loose or shaky, and the gums may become painful.
If left untreated, gum abscesses may develop, and teeth may fall out. In severe cases, gum infections may spread to other parts of the body, leading to further health issues.
What can be done about Gum Disease?
The good news is that gum disease is treatable and it is entirely preventable. If you follow a proper oral care routine including regular dentist visits.
One of the main causes of gum disease is the harmful build-up of plaque and bacteria on the teeth and in the mouth. A dentist is able to give your mouth professional cleaning using special techniques which help them to reach the areas that you might miss as part of your normal dental care routine. These treatments will help to alleviate inflammation and minor gum disease.
Here are some recommended options:
- Professional cleaning: A dental professional can perform a deep cleaning of your teeth and gums to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
- Scaling and root planing: This non-surgical procedure involves removing bacteria and tartar from deep beneath the gum line and smoothing the roots of your teeth.
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics can be prescribed to help kill bacteria and treat infections that are contributing to gum disease.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue, reduce pockets between the teeth and gums, or restore lost bone.
- Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, reducing stress, and improving your diet can also help prevent or manage gum disease.
If you suspect that you may have gum disease, it is vital to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment of gum disease can help prevent the condition from progressing and causing further damage to your oral health.
When left untreated, gum disease can lead to more severe complications, including tooth loss, gum abscesses, and even bone loss in the jaw. In addition to the potential for significant oral health problems, recent studies have linked gum disease to an increased risk of other health issues, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
During your appointment, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, looking for signs of inflammation, bleeding, or pockets of bacteria. Based on their findings, they may recommend treatments such as scaling and root planing, antibiotics, or surgical interventions.
How to Prevent Gum Disease at Home?
Here are some tips on how to prevent gum disease at home:
- Brush your teeth regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day, for two minutes each time, using fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush all sides of your teeth and your tongue.
- Floss daily: Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles that are stuck between your teeth and gums.
- Use mouthwash: Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Eat a healthy diet: Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks and consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Quit smoking: Smoking increases your risk of developing gum disease.
- Drink water: Drinking plenty of water helps flush away bacteria and food particles from your mouth.
- Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing sugar-free gum can help stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes acids and helps wash away food particles.
By following these simple steps, you can help prevent gum disease and maintain good oral health at home.
Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups at least every six months.
Visit a Dentist in Los Angeles
Our dental professionals can assist you in reducing the risk of developing the periodontal disease by removing plaque from your teeth. Through a scale and polish, also known as a professional clean, our team can remove any plaque that cannot be eliminated with just a toothbrush. Read more about our Teeth Whitening in Inglewood, CA.