Gum Disease: Treatment and Prevention

Your gums are the foundation of your smile. If they are unhealthy, your teeth will not look their best. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults.

According to the Mayo Clinic, gum disease is a common condition caused by plaque buildup along the gum line. Plaque hardens into tartar, which irritates the gums and causes them to pull away from the teeth. This can lead to bacteria and toxins below the gum line, causing irritation and inflammation that spreads to the roots of the teeth. This can cause damage to the bone and soft tissue in the jaw and result in tooth loss over time.

How is Gum Disease Diagnosed?

During your regular checkup at All Smile Dental, Dr. Singh will examine your gums for signs of gum disease. If your gums show signs of the disease, diagnostic testing may be ordered to check for bacteria or plaque below the gum line. You may also be tested for diabetes because people with diabetes are more likely to develop periodontitis.

If your results show that you have gum disease, your dentist will recommend treatment methods to restore oral health and prevent further damage to your gums. 

If left untreated, this condition will continue to worsen until it leads to tooth loss. However, treatment is available to prevent permanent damage to the teeth and gums. There are several options available depending on the severity of the case.

Daily Oral Hygiene Routine

The best way to prevent gum disease is to maintain a good daily oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing at least once a day to remove food debris from between the teeth and under the gum line. In between cleanings, rinse your mouth with water or a mouthwash that contains fluoride to help remove bacteria in the mouth. This can help prevent the formation of plaque and keep your gums healthy.

Professional Cleanings and Exams

Along with maintaining good oral hygiene at home, have Dr. Singh at All Smile Dental professionally clean your teeth two to four times a year to remove stubborn plaque or tartar buildup. If needed, we may perform a periodontal scaling procedure to remove the buildup from the gum line. This will help keep your smile clean and reduce the risk of periodontal disease.

Antibiotics

In some cases, your dentist may recommend taking antibiotics to fight infection in the gum tissue and stop the spread of gum disease. Dr. Singh will need to monitor your progress and determine if this treatment is right for you.

How Can You Prevent Gum Disease?

The best way to avoid gum (periodontal) disease is through prevention and maintenance. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day can help prevent plaque buildup, which can damage the teeth and the gums and cause bacteria to spread. Make sure that you are flossing once a day as well to remove food particles and debris from between the teeth and along the gum line. Consider using a mouthwash for an extra boost of anti-bacterial action. The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist for a preventive care visit and cleaning every six months.

All Smile Dental is here to give you the best oral tips and help you restore your smile. You can book an appointment with our dentist in Turlock, CA, at the dental office by calling (209) 668-3736 or our dentist in Modesto, CA, at the dental office by calling (209) 409-8839.