Tips For Treating Periodontal Disease
Gum disease is a relatively common condition that begins with mild symptoms such as red swollen gums and bad breath. In its earliest stage, it is referred to as gingivitis.
However, if left untreated it can progress to a stage, where it is known as periodontal disease. At this point it can affect the structures around the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligament and jaw bone, and cause the sufferer a wide range of dental problems.
Causes of gum disease
The main cause of gum disease is an accumulation of sticky, bacteria-laden plaque on the teeth. These bacteria produce acid which eats away at your teeth, causing decay and damage. It can also trap stains, causing your teeth to become discolored.
Plaque can begin forming in as little as 4 to 12 hours after brushing. This means that brushing at least twice a day, ideally after meals, is crucial to preventing plaque from causing gum disease and turning to tartar. This is a hardened form of plaque that can only be removed by a professional clean.
The effects of periodontal disease
Periodontal disease can have a number of undesirable consequences, which include:
- Severe pain and swelling
- Foul taste in the mouth
- Gum abscesses
- Receding gums
- Teeth that are so badly decayed that they require extraction
- Teeth that appear loose in their sockets
- Teeth that fall out of their own accord
Tips for treating periodontal disease
Before you become alarmed, there are things that you can do to prevent and treat periodontal disease.
Robust dental cleaning routine
By far the most important thing that you can do prevent and treat periodontal disease is follow a robust dental cleaning routine. Most plaque can be removed with twice-daily brushing and daily flossing, and using a fluoride mouthwash.
Get professional cleans
Professional cleans by your dentist or hygienist can help to remove any stubborn areas of plaque that simply refuse to budge. This is because professional cleans combine the benefits of unrestricted access to all parts of our mouths with specialist cleaning tools.
Quit smoking
Not only is smoking catastrophic for your overall health and wellbeing, but it is a leading contributor of gum disease. Ditch the nicotine today and start feeling the benefits immediately.
Eat right
We all like a sweet treat, but too much sugar spells disaster for your teeth. Cut right back on calorific sodas, swapping for water wherever possible. Limit how much candy and chocolate you consumed, and try and follow a well-balanced diet. Foods that are rich in calcium can help to strengthen your teeth, so there is no harm in stocking up on some dairy too.
If you are concerned that you may have any stage of gum disease, contact our dental office in Arlington today. Dr. Joseph Khalil and Dr. Ray Cho will be happy to examine your teeth and give you further tips for preventing and treating periodontal disease.
