Most of us tend to take a similar approach when it comes to seemingly minor health issues like the common cold; to recognize time. It is natural for this situation to heal and improve on its own. So is gum disease one of those minor problems? Would a little treat help you get over it and move on?
Understanding the True Nature of Gum Disease
Gum disease, contrary to its name, is not limited to just your gums. Experts believe that the term periodontal disease, which includes infected bone and ligaments around tooth roots, is more appropriate.
Periodontal disease is an infection of bacterial species that do not need oxygen to survive. This means they can multiply in the deep, dark pockets they form around your teeth. Once established, they can access all the resources they need to sustain the problem and contribute to the development of health problems in the rest of the body, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
How Do You Know You Have Gum Disease?
Gum disease is typically caused by poor oral care routines, skipping dental visits, advanced age, chronic disease, or genetics.
Common symptoms of gum disease include tooth and mouth pain, loose teeth, receding gums, swelling, bleeding when brushing and flossing, bad breath, change in the way teeth fit together. If you suspect you may have this condition, a periodontal consultation with your dentist will be the best way to assess your symptoms and answer your gum disease-related concerns.
How Is Gum Disease Treated?
In patients with periodontal disease, toothbrush and floss may not reach the affected areas. You will need expert help. Dentists have highly specialized tools that can go deeper to gently access deep pockets of the gums. The dentist will use these instruments to smooth out rough root surfaces and physically remove any infectious debris. Antibiotic therapy can also be applied.
It is important to remember that you are still at risk, even after professional treatment. It’s nearly impossible to eliminate all bacteria in a single appointment, and all those deep pockets can still collect more plaque. To keep gum disease under control, you need to continue a regular care routine with your dentist.
What You Can Do At Home
You probably want to know what you can do to prevent gum disease at home. The most effective methods of fighting gum disease at home are:
eating a nutritious diet high in vitamin C
.Avoiding tobacco use
.Keeping blood sugar under control for diabetics
.Brushing your teeth twice a day
.Floss carefully just below the gumline every day
.Using an antibacterial rinse to keep the bacterial count in check
While there are steps you can take to keep gum disease at bay, you don’t have to fight gum disease on your own. Be sure to contact your dentist for a professional periodontal evaluation
