Can You Treat Your Gum Disease at Home? It Depends on Your Answers to These Questions

Gum disease can be painful, it is progressive, and it can cause lasting damage to your gums and teeth. However, you may wonder: Do I have to get my gum disease treated at the dentist or can I treat it via at-home oral health care? The answer to that question depends on how you answer the following questions. If you have questions, or want to know what your best options are, contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 for help.

How Severe is Your Gum Disease?

The mildest form of gum disease is known as gingivitis. It is the very beginning stage and does not create permanent damage if it is handled right away. However, if it is not treated and it turns into advanced gum disease – known as periodontitis – then it can cause serious damage including bone loss and tooth loss.

As a result, how serious your gum disease is should be a deciding factor in which type of treatment you consider. Gingivitis can be treated by improving your brushing and flossing habits. If it is more severe, then your dentist should find the right solutions to help you prevent the progression of the disease and long-term side effects.

When Did Symptoms Start?

How long you have had gum disease symptoms is a telling factor that should be taken into consideration when you decide if you should treat it at home or with help from your dentist. Some people deal with it at home for years before they seek help. In some instances, a person may develop symptoms of gum disease, take extra care to brush and floss, and see the symptoms recede – only to have them show up again.

If you have had the symptoms come and go, or if you have noticed them for more than a year, then it is time to get your dentist involved.

What is the Cause of Your Gum Disease?

If you do not brush and floss as regularly as you should, and you believe this is likely the root cause of your gum disease, then it may be fine to treat it on your own. If you are a smoker and believe this is part of the cause, then you likely need help from your dentist. If you have a family history of gum disease then you likely need the help of a dentist.

If you are concerned about your gum health, we suggest you contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 at your earliest convenience. We can find ways for you to move forward with healthier, happier gums.