It’s estimated that nearly half of all Americans have some form of gum disease. Gum disease is progressive—once it starts, it requires treatment to stop it from advancing. Gum disease can range from mild to severe. If left untreated, the disease can eventually cost you your smile. You can stop the progression of gum disease by noticing the symptoms, getting treatment, and continuing your home care. Catch gum disease before it’s too late and stop it once and for all!
Early Signs and Symptoms
Noticing the signs and symptoms of gum disease can help you identify a problem early on and seek treatment as necessary. There are many signs of gum disease, among them including:
ï‚· Persistent bad breath even after brushing
ï‚· Red or swollen gums
ï‚· Tender gums or pain when chewing
ï‚· Sensitive teeth
ï‚· Loose teeth
ï‚· Teeth that appear longer (indicative of receding gums)
If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with your dentist. He or she will be able to tell you if you have gum disease and provide treatment!
Getting a Diagnosis and Treatment
Your dentist can diagnose you with gum disease and talk with you about your treatment options. One of the most common options for gum disease is a deep cleaning. This process is also known as root planing and scaling, which scrapes plaque from below your gumline while removing any infection contained there.
The root planing will also smooth your tooth’s roots where pockets of pus may have formed, allowing your gums to reattach to the teeth. Removing the bacteria can help stop gum disease in its tracks, but your home care will determine how successful the treatment is. Your dentist may suggest coming in for cleanings more often in order to ensure that the gum disease has not returned. He or she may also suggest tips for better home care that you can follow.
Continuing Care
Gum disease can and will return without regular home care of your teeth. Daily care is imperative in ensuring your symptoms don’t return. In order to do this, continue to brush twice a day and floss once a day. Remember that proper brushing is more effective than aggressive brushing. Flossing helps to remove plaque from in between your teeth and at the top of your teeth near the gumline, which can ultimately improve your gum health. The goal is to prevent bacteria from making a home in your gums or in your teeth. Flossing is an essential part of this process. Talk with your dentist about how often you should return for checkups. Your meticulous care will be an important part in keeping gum disease away.
Keeping gum disease from progressing can save your smile! By seeking a diagnosis and treatment from your professional dentist, you can effectively stop gum disease. Notice the signs and symptoms of gum disease to protect your smile before it’s too late. Always practice thorough home care to keep gum disease away, and get checkups as needed to ensure it hasn’t returned!
