Defending Against Gum Disease
November 27, 2017
Gum disease can often be prevented with good defense. Gum disease is very common and can potentially be quite dangerous to both your oral and overall health. Most cases are caused by poor oral hygiene though not every case is that the cause. Good oral hygiene can help to prevent gum disease. It includes brushing and flossing twice daily, and it also includes professional cleanings and checkups at least twice a year. While gum disease can be prevented, it can also be treated to prevent it from causing serious harm to you or your smile.
Good, Effective Hygiene
You should brush and floss your teeth thoroughly at least twice daily. After every meal would be even better for your smile, if you can find the time. When you brush your teeth, it is imperative that you spend at least two minutes total to make sure that you brush every surface of every tooth. Flossing gives you the chance to remove leftover particles hiding between your teeth. Leaving food particles and bacteria in your mouth can lead to an increased risk of gum disease. The bacteria can build up and can get beneath the gum line to cause inflammation. This inflammation is known as gingivitis, which is the earliest form of gum disease.
Checkups and Cleanings
Even with a vigilant hygiene routine at home, bacteria can find hiding spots in your mouth that you might be missing. A professional cleaning gives your dentist or hygienist a chance to clean these hiding spots, but you can get some tips on how to better address these problem areas. If your dentist notices signs of gum disease, a periodontal cleaning or scaling and root planing can treat or possibly reverse gum disease. A peridontal cleaning involves carefully removing any bacteria that has built up beneath the gums. In the more advanced stages of gum disease, more involved treatments may be necessary to manage gum disease. In the early stages, gum disease can be stopped from progressing.
Gum Disease Can Be Stopped
Gum disease can lead to pain, tooth loss, health problems, and more. To schedule a consultation , call Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.