Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health problem that can lead to pain, discomfort, bad breath, and more serious health issues over time. The good news is that early intervention can help you manage gum disease and prevent it from getting worse.
If you have symptoms like bleeding gums, pain when eating, soreness, or loose teeth, it’s important to see your dentist in Ocala. They can provide you with prevention tips and start treatment if needed.
While gum disease is often not curable, gingivitis, which is the earliest stage, can be completely reversed with better oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings. Gingivitis occurs when bacteria infect the gums, causing redness and inflammation. By treating it at this stage, the bacteria can be eliminated and the inflammation will subside.
As gum disease advances, bacteria spread to the supporting bone and tissue that hold your teeth in place, which can lead to tooth loss in severe cases. Although treatment might regenerate some tissue, it may not fully repair the damage. However, effective intervention can halt the disease’s progress.
Gum disease typically starts with plaque buildup. Food particles get stuck between the gums and teeth, leading to plaque formation and bacterial spread, which can infect the gums. Poor oral hygiene habits significantly contribute to gum disease, but understanding the risk factors is also important so you can take extra precautions if needed.
To prevent gum disease, maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. Brush your teeth two to three times a day with fluoride toothpaste, and try to brush after meals if possible. Floss at least once daily to remove trapped food particles. Using an anti-bacterial mouthwash can also help reduce bacterial spread.
Regular dental cleanings and exams are crucial for catching early signs of gum disease and removing hardened plaque. Based on your health, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits. Quitting tobacco can greatly reduce your risk of gum disease and improve your oral health.
Even though gum disease isn’t always curable, treatments are available to stop its spread and reduce symptoms. Periodontists, who specialize in gum disease, offer various treatments depending on the severity and patient preferences.
A deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing removes plaque and makes it harder for bacteria to stick to your roots. This is effective for treating mild gum disease before any bone or tissue loss occurs. For more severe cases, surgery such as gum or bone grafts may be necessary. Tissue regeneration procedures can accompany these surgeries to help grow new tissue, stopping the disease from spreading and restoring function.
Early intervention can stop the progression of gum disease and, in mild cases, even reverse the damage. If you notice any signs of gum disease, talk to your dentist right away.
Good oral hygiene can prevent gum disease from developing and help manage symptoms. While prevention is key, various treatments can stop the progression of even severe gum disease and improve your quality of life.
