Best Prevention Tips for Gum Disease

 

Periodontal disease is a condition in which the bacteria present in plaque builds up within the gums and teeth in your mouth. It
s also known as gum disease.

What Happens When You Have Gum Disease?

When you have gum disease, the gums around the teeth can become inflamed from the buildup of plaque. If left untreated for too long, the structure of the bones that support healthy gums can deteriorate over time. Gum disease may even be associated with other conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, according to the findings of new research on the condition. But some daily routines can help to prevent this disease. Read on to learn how to prevent gum disease and gingivitis.

gum disease

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the first initial stage of gum disease. The thin naturally occurring film on your teeth is called plaque, and its continual buildup can cause gingivitis. It
s estimated that about eighty percent of adults will likely experience some symptoms of gingivitis, some of which include red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

Gingivitis can lead to chronic periodontitis as well as severe bad breath. The problems are usually caused by poor dental habits, hygiene, or not caring for certain areas of the mouth as well as you should. If you have any of these symptoms, it would be wise to seek treatment from your dentist or periodontist at Central Florida Periodontics.

Assessing the Risk for Gum Disease

Your risk associated with gum disease increases with age. Unsurprisingly, smoking can dramatically increase the risk for developing gingivitis. Genetics can also pose a risk, according to the American Academy of Periodontology. If you are at an increased risk, it
s important to seek out attention from a dental professional to check your mouth for signs and symptoms of the condition.

Dental Exams

It
s very important to schedule regular dental appointments with your dentist so they can assess the health of your teeth, gums, and jaw to make a determination on whether or not you may have this condition or any of its onset symptoms.

They will look at tartar deposits on your teeth and under your gum line while checking for plaque buildup, hygiene, bleeding of the gums, and loose teeth. Dentists can check for periodontal disease or gingivitis by measuring under your gum line and taking x-ray images for further study.

Proper Dental Hygiene

Proper dental hygiene can prevent gum disease altogether. The most obvious ways are regular brushing and flossing your teeth and tongue. Another preventative measure is to use mouthwash. Making these three things a regular habit can greatly decrease your risk of gum disease and provide you with a stronger, healthier mouth.

See a Periodontist

If you have serious symptoms that are persistent, you may need to schedule an appointment to see a periodontist at Central Florida Periodontics. We will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your oral situation.

Treatments include scaling and root planning for gingivitis, which can be reversed. However, periodontitis can only be slowed and kept under control once you have it and sometimes, minor surgery is necessary. Consult with a periodontist to learn more about how you can prevent gum disease or receive treatment if you already have it.