Gum Disease and How to Prevent it
Gum Disease Prevention
Preventative dental hygiene is one of the best steps you can take for self-care. A healthy dental routine at home and regular cleanings at a professional dental office will help to prevent certain health issues and diseases.
Make no mistake, if your mouth is unhealthy, you will feel the effects throughout your entire body. Dental health is closely tied to physical health.
If you are ready to get started with preventative dental health but are unsure where to start, give Gentle Dental in Houston a call. Our professional staff of dentists and dental hygienists can make recommendations regarding all aspects of dental care.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum Disease, also known as Periodontal Disease, is an inflammation and infection of the gums. This type of disease can show up when plaque and biofilm build-up on your teeth and against your gums.
Without regular brushing and flossing, plaque will begin to accumulate. When it is not removed, plaque will eventually harden into tartar. This is the beginning stage of Gingivitis.
When Gingivitis occurs, you will know because of the inflammation that comes with it. Additionally, if left alone it could result in tooth loss.
Furthermore, when not treated, Ginigivitis will turn into Periodontitis which is a more serious form. Periodontitis will eventually erode and destroy the gums around your teeth. Bone loss, bleeding gums, and bad breath are other indications of Periodontitis.
Many scientists have concluded from research that there is a link between gum disease and stroke, heart disease, and even diabetes. When your dental health is in bad shape, your immune system will not function at full capacity.
Preventing Gum Disease
The best way to prevent such disease is through the routine practice of oral care. This includes a twice-daily brushing and flossing of teeth. Some patients will use a mouthwash after every brushing, and others will use a fluoride solution to protect their teeth from harmful foods and drinks.
Home dental care is significant, but alone it will not prevent diseases. The key to prevention lies with your professional dentist. Most dentists recommend coming in every six months for routine teeth cleaning.
Investing in this care will be worth it because not only will you receive a professional cleaning, but your dentist will give you the benefit of early detection if he sees any problems.
Gum Disease Treatment
Gum Disease is the harsh reality of improper dental care. It is painful and can be debilitating. Furthermore, it ruins one’s smile and confidence.
Fortunately, Gum Disease treatment no longer involves complicated and painful surgery. There are even non-surgical treatments in some instances. If your particular situation dictates the need for surgery, your dentist might choose to do a gum graft.
Should you be dealing with tooth loss from Gum Disease, we can also help you determine if a crown or implant is appropriate as a replacement.
Schedule an Appointment with Gentle Dental!
Treatment of Gum Disease will vary from patient to patient. As a result, it is best to discuss your condition with your dentist so that a treatment plan can be formed specifically for you.
You can find more information about Gentle Dental of Houston services and locations by visiting our website. We also encourage our patients to call (281) 855-1100 for answers to your questions and concerns.