Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common issue that can cause pain, discomfort, bad breath, and more serious health problems over time. Luckily, catching it early can help manage and prevent it from getting worse.
If you notice symptoms like bleeding gums, pain when you eat, soreness, or loose teeth, it’s important to see your dentist in Ocala. They can give you some tips on how to prevent gum disease and start treatment if needed.
While most cases of gum disease aren’t curable, gingivitis, the earliest stage, is completely reversible with better oral hygiene and professional cleanings. Gingivitis happens when bacteria infect your gums, turning them red and inflamed. At this stage, you can treat it by eliminating the bacteria, which should reduce the inflammation in your gums. If gum disease progresses, the bacteria can spread to the bone and tissue supporting your teeth. In severe cases, you might even start losing teeth. While treatment can help regenerate some tissue, it’s unlikely to fix all the damage. However, effective intervention can stop the disease from getting worse.
Plaque buildup is usually the main cause of gum disease. When food gets stuck between your gums and teeth, plaque can accumulate, and bacteria can spread and infect your gums. Poor oral hygiene is a significant factor in developing gum disease, but other risk factors might mean you need to take extra care.
Preventing gum disease starts with consistent oral hygiene. Make sure to brush and floss regularly. You should brush two to three times a day with fluoride toothpaste, ideally right after meals. Flossing at least once a day helps remove food particles trapped between your teeth. Adding an anti-bacterial mouthwash to your routine can also help reduce bacteria spread.
Regular cleanings and exams with your dentist are crucial to catching any early signs of gum disease and removing hardened plaque. Depending on your health, your dentist might suggest more frequent visits. Quitting tobacco can significantly reduce your risk of developing gum disease and improve your oral health.
While gum disease can’t always be cured, treatments can stop it from spreading and reduce symptoms. Periodontists, who specialize in gum disease, offer various treatments depending on the severity and your preferences. A deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing removes plaque and makes it harder for bacteria to stick to your roots. This treatment is effective for mild gum disease before any bone or tissue loss occurs.
For more severe cases, surgery, like gum or bone grafts, might be needed. These procedures often include tissue regeneration to help your body create new tissue, stopping the disease from spreading and restoring function.
By addressing gum disease early, you can stop it from getting worse and even reverse the damage in mild cases. If you think you have signs of gum disease, it’s important to visit your dentist as soon as possible. Good oral hygiene practices can prevent gum disease and help manage symptoms, while various treatments can halt the progression of even severe gum disease, improving your quality of life.
