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We’ve all been told just how important it is to ensure that you are practicing proper dental home care by thoroughly brushing and flossing, but many do not know exactly why. A very large part of the stress on proper home care is the prevention of gum disease. Continue reading to learn more about the symptoms and signs of gum disease.
Types of Gum Disease
Gum disease occurs when bacteria accumulates underneath the gumline. There are two stages of gum disease:
Gingivitis
In this stage, the gums become inflamed and may bleed when brushing or flossing. With proper treatment, this stage can be reversed.
Periodontitis
In this stage, the gum disease has advanced. Pockets form between the tooth and gum that make it easier for bacteria to become trapped and multiply. Patients with periodontists commonly experience gum and bone recession which eventually leads to loose and the loss of teeth, pain and bleeding in the gums when untouched, and bad breath. This stage of cannot be reversed, but it can be managed in order to prevent it from progressing.
Gum Disease Treatment
If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, your dentist will ensure that you are planned for the treatment that you need to properly manage your condition.
If you have gingivitis, you will be planned for a thorough cleaning both above and below t0he gum level. Your hygienist may ask that you return every three months rather than every six months for your cleaning in order to ensure that the gingivitis can be reversed.
If you have been diagnosed with periodontitis, you will be planned for a scaling and root planing, in which your hygienist will thoroughly clean above and below the gumline. Antibiotics will then be placed underneath the gum to halt the growth of harmful bacteria.
For more information about gum disease or to get scheduled for gum disease treatment in Robstown, Tx, give Robstown Smiles a call at (361) 933-0124.