Learning About Gum Disease Treatment

So you've finally made that appointment with your dentist and went in for that semiannual checkup that you've been putting off for the last 9 months. In addition to avoiding seeing your dentist, you've also been neglecting your oral health. Things have been so hectic for you that you haven't been taking care of your teeth like you should have been. No worries -- now that you are in the dental office, your dentist will clean your teeth and make sure that everything is okay, right? Wrong! As your dentist is accessing the state of your gums and teeth, he informs you that you are developing gum disease. You may have noticed that prior to your dental visit, that you were already exhibiting some signs of gum disease. These symptoms include chronic bad breath, teeth that are sensitive, bleeding and or swelling of your gums, loose teeth and a receding gum line.

Gum disease affects thousands of people every year. It is also called periodontal disease and it occurs when the bacteria and plaque in the mouth are allowed to buildup and if they are allowed to harden, becoming a substance called tartar. This tartar in turn causes inflammation to the gums and soft tissues in the mouth. This inflammation is called Gingivitis. Once the gums and teeth are exposed to gingivitis, bleeding, pain, swelling, tooth decay, and bone loss can occur. Don't be alarmed when you find out that you have gum disease. Gum disease is curable if it is diagnosed early enough. If you learn more about gum disease treatment, you can get your oral health back and prevent this from occurring again in the future.

The first step in treating gum disease is to stop its advancement and get it under control. In order to do this, your dentist will need to do several tests to determine how severe your case of periodontal disease is. If you are only dealing with a mild case, then generally a thorough cleaning and proper follow up hygiene care provided by you will be all that is needed. However, if you are suffering from a more severe case, then, you may be prescribed medication, and in the worst case scenario, need surgery to keep the infection from spreading.

If you do not seek gum disease treatment as soon as you suspect you have gum disease, you run the risk of developing other health problems. Remember, your oral health and medical health are related and one can affect the other. Effective gum disease treatment includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing after every meal and also incorporating the use of mouthwash in the morning to help keep the plague and bacteria at bay. Avoid smoking and try to eat a well-rounded diet that reduces the amount of starchy and sugary foods you eat. Schedule and keep all appointments with your dentist, and if you have to miss one be sure to reschedule that appointment as soon as possible.