Many people in America have a type of periodontal disease. That might be more commonly called gum disease. It happens when there is a bacteria buildup on your teeth, causing gum infection. Other issues can also make you more likely to have gum disease. That could include diabetes, obesity, or pregnancy. Still, you can avoid the condition with regular dental appointments and hygiene.
How does the periodontal disease progress?
First, periodontal disease begins with plaque building on the teeth. That is a sticky, thin bacteria layer. As it hardens, it turns into tartar, and only a dentist can remove that. Otherwise, the condition might continue to progress.
It starts with gingivitis, which is the mildest form of gum disease. The symptoms might include bleeding while flossing or brushing. Or the gums might look swollen or red. Flossing and brushing more often is the key to preventing this form of periodontal disease. The patient should also have a regular dental appointment. That way, the dentist can remove the tartar and look for early signs of the condition.
Periodontitis
If gingivitis does not get treatment, there might be more severe oral health issues. For instance, there could be bone loss around the teeth. That means the support structures get damaged and no longer do their job. There can then be more severe oral health issues. The damage from that is not reversible.
Patients might get scaling and root planing, which is a type of deep cleaning. That involves removing the tartar and plaque from the teeth. During root planing, the dentist smooths out the tooth’s roots to stop bacteria from building up. That also allows the gums to attach to the teeth once more.
During periodontal disease, the teeth might become loose and fall out. That can occur because of the bone loss around the teeth. Gum surgery might be necessary to treat it. But with advanced forms, tooth extraction might be the only course of action.
Preventing the condition
Regular brushing is critical to remove plaque and food debris between the gums and teeth. The patient should brush around the gumline as well to fully clean the teeth. Some dentists might recommend brushing after each meal to remove plaque and prevent tartar entirely. It is critical to brush the tongue and roof of the mouth since bacteria can live there.
Patients should floss once a day or more. A dentist might recommend flossing several times if there is a risk of gum disease. That removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth. The toothbrush will not reach all these areas.
Talk to the dentist about the right type of dental floss and other tools to use. Patients might need to use a mouthwash, as well. That can remove other food particles and plaque from between the teeth. Still, it is not a substitute for flossing and brushing regularly.
Choosing the right periodontal treatment
It is critical to keep up with your oral hygiene to get a healthier and happier smile. Your dentist is a useful resource for help. Making an appointment today is the first step toward a better look. That can increase your self-esteem.
Request an appointment here: https://www.kaysvillefamilydentistry.com or call Kaysville Family Dentistry at (801) 546-2439 for an appointment in our Kaysville office.
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