Do You Have Questions About Gum Disease? Get Answers from Your Local Dentist
Gum disease is one of the main causes of tooth loss in American adults, along with tooth decay. Considering that gum disease is both treated and avoidable, this number is quite depressing. With assistance from your dentist, this FAQ can help you comprehend how to safeguard the health of your gums. Contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 for a dental cleaning and exam if you are concerned you have gum disease.
What is gum disease?
Inflammatory conditions like gum disease are brought on by an overgrowth of plaque bacteria on your teeth. These bacteria release acids and other harmful byproducts that irritate and harm gum tissue in addition to wearing away tooth enamel.
Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is a very minor condition, but if it is not treated, the bacteria will advance further into the crevices between the gums and teeth. Gum recession and possibly a little amount of bone loss might start. Periodontitis is the term for this stage. If still no treatment is taken, the condition might worsen and turn into advanced periodontitis. The gum and bone structure will be so compromised at this time that teeth may become loosened or even fall out.
What signs point to gum disease?
The most typical signs of early gum disease (gingivitis) are red, sore, swollen, or painful gums that bleed when you brush or floss. It is advisable to seek a professional diagnosis from a dentist in Tustin, California, if you have any of these symptoms.
What are the treatment options for gum disease?
Improving your oral health is the best method to stop gum disease in its early stages. A regular tooth cleaning is advised for gingivitis. A specialized periodontal deep cleaning will be required for periodontitis in order to get rid of the excessive bacteria and tartar accumulation along the gum line. In severe situations, surgery could be necessary to close deep gum pockets and keep them from getting infected further.
What goes into a periodontal deep clean?
Periodontal deep cleaning, also known as scaling or root planing, is a unique technique carried out by your dental hygienist. The process will probably need two visits, with each session involving cleaning half of your mouth. Your gums will first get a local anesthetic from the dental hygienist.
After that, they will assist remove plaque and tartar that have built up on your teeth below the gum line using an ultrasonic scaling instrument. The hygienist will then use a hand tool to remove any resistant tartar that is still present. Your gums could feel a little uncomfortable following this surgery, but this will subside within a few days.
How can gum disease be prevented?
Keeping your teeth clean is the most effective approach to stave off gum disease. This calls for daily tooth brushing, daily flossing, and regular yearly dental cleanings. If you have a history of periodontitis, your dentist may advise scheduling more regular cleanings to prevent plaque and tartar development, such as every three to four months rather than just once or twice a year.
