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Learn How to Prevent and Treat Gum Disease from the Comfort of Your Own Home

June 8, 2020

Learn How to Prevent and Treat Gum Disease from the Comfort of Your Own Home

When a person is diagnosed with gum disease, they are often worried about the extensive treatment they assume they will need. The truth is that if you catch it early, you may be able to treat it by taking a few simple steps to improve your overall oral health. Keep reading to learn more and then contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to make an appointment with a local dentist.

The Initial Symptoms of Gum Disease Are Very Mild

In most cases, the first stage of gum disease (gingivitis) does not come with serious symptoms. You may notice that your gums bleed when you floss. Your gums may be swollen or noticeably inflamed. It’s also likely that your gums will have receded from your gums somewhat, though that is harder to see. If you are experiencing issues with your gums, then it is best to assume you have gum disease and step up your oral health care regime accordingly.

The Causes of Gum Disease

Gingivitis is caused by plaque building up on your teeth. Plaque is made of bacteria, mucus, and food that gathers in your mouth. Once it builds up, it creates toxins that actually attack your gums. If steps aren’t taken to control the issue, then gingivitis can quickly turn into a more serious periodontal disease. By the time that has happened, bacteria are under the gums and are attacking the soft tissue and bone that are essential to supporting the teeth. This is how tooth loss can occur.

The Best Way to Control the Spread of Gum Disease is to Brush Your Teeth

The top way you can control the spread of gum disease is to keep the plaque from growing. You can do this by simply brushing your teeth every day at least twice per day. Do not fall into the trap of seeing blood, assuming there is an issue caused by brushing, and slacking to avoid the bleeding or the hurt. This is the opposite of helpful to you. If you are in the early stage of gum disease, brushing better for a few weeks could be enough to fix the issue.

When you are brushing your teeth, use fluoride toothpaste. Make sure that you are brushing for at last two minutes straight. Angle the brush to get to every surface of your teeth. Gently get the bristles to and under your gums, and do not forget to brush your tongue as it can be home to many germs.

Floss Daily to Prevent and Treat Gum Disease

If you are only an occasional flosser, you are taking your gum health for granted. Toothbrushes can only get the surface areas. You need flossing to get between your teeth where the bacteria may be hiding. You should be flossing at least once per day.

It is a good idea to talk to your dentist about your concerns so that we can ensure the issue is not more serious. Contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to set up an appointment.

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