How is Gum Disease Prevented and Treated?

If you think your mouth is spotless, think again. You might be struggling with gum disease because it usually does not show signs in the initial stage. Therefore, it is essential to keep an eye on the warning signs. Did you know as per the American Dental Association, periodontitis and gingivitis are the primary cause of tooth loss in adults? Read below to know the tips to prevent and treat gum diseases.

Know Causes of Gum Disease and How You Can Prevent it

There are several reasons behind this gum infection. These include:

Plaque Accumulation

In numerous cases, plaque is the main cause of gum disease. It is a thin bacteria film that collects on the teeth and gum. When treated early, gum disease can be reversible. Fixing routine dental check-ups every six months and sticking to a good oral care routine is the best way to prevent or minimize the already plaque buildup.

Shifting of Hormones

During pregnancy or the menstrual cycle, the hormones of women changes. It makes the gums highly prone to gum diseases. Therefore, it is essential to take extra care of the mouth to achieve good dental health.

Some Illnesses

Few illnesses like HIV or cancer significantly affect gum health. These diseases usually interfere with the immune system. It makes them highly prone to developing infections. If you are also struggling with the same conditions and need some tips, call an expert at Dental Arts Ninth Street – St.Petersburg as soon as possible.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Nutritional deficiencies can be another cause of gum disease. It is crucial to get essential vitamins daily. For example, not getting sufficient vitamin C could cause significant damage to the gums. A diet rich in carbohydrates and sugar but low in vitamin C and water is the best to prevent gum problems.

Family History of Gum Disease

A history of gum disease in your family could increase the risk of developing a bacterial infection in the mouth. Therefore, if you have a family history of this condition, speak to the dentist in St. Petersburg, FL without delay.

Tobacco and Smoking

Chewing tobacco and smoking interferes with the normal functioning of the cells in the gum tissue. It results in gum diseases. Quitting tobacco and smoking is the best way to prevent gum infection and other health problems.

Crooked, Misaligned, or Crowded Teeth

Crookedness or a crowded mouth creates a home for the bacteria to thrive. Also, misalignment of teeth forms spaces where plaque collects. Flossing and brushing daily will help you prevent gum infection.

Poor Oral Hygiene Habits

Not brushing and flossing teeth every day increases the risk of gingivitis and other gum diseases. But booking an appointment for preventive Dentistry in St Petersburg, FL can help.

Certain Medicines

Few medicines reduce the flow of saliva. As you know, saliva is essential in protecting the gums and teeth by washing the debris away. It declines the dental health of an individual. These medicines can also result in the overgrowth of gum tissue and make plaque tough to remove.

What Effects Do Gum Diseases Have on My Oral Health?

Gum disease usually has different stages. The initial stage is known as gingivitis. It is the condition where the gums turn red or swollen or may bleed. However, the advanced stage is known as periodontitis. During this, gums start pulling away from the tooth. It results in the loss of bone, falling out of teeth, or loose teeth.

Furthermore, dental health issues like gum disease are connected to numerous health conditions like Alzheimer’s, kidney disease, diabetes, cancer, and osteoporosis. There are more than 120 health conditions that link to oral health issues.

Gum Disease Treatment

The dentist treats gum diseases in the following ways:

Deep Cleaning of Teeth

To control gum infection, the dentist usually recommends in-depth cleaning. During the procedure, the professional uses a scaling and root planing technique. In scaling, the dentist uses special instruments to eradicate tartar below and above the gum lining. However, root planning occurs when the expert smoothes out the rough areas of tooth roots.

Surgery

When the deep cleaning does not work, the dentist may recommend the following surgeries:

Flap Surgery

In flap surgery, the expert lifts the gums to remove the tartar accumulated underneath the gum line.

Gum Graft Surgery

Gum grafting surgery occurs when the surgeon takes tissue from another area of the mouth and masks the exposed tooth roots.

If you are worried about your gum health, discuss it with Dr. Cecilia Sorelle DDS At Dental Arts on 9th St today.