Preventing Gum Disease
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Given the lack
of noticeable symptoms during the initial stages, gum disease can be difficult
to recognize before the dentition has already suffered irreparable damage.
While highly preventable, many patients tend to develop gingivitis without
realizing that their oral health is at risk of extensive damage.
Recognizing Gum Disease
Being able to
recognize changes in your smile as well as the onset of symptoms can help
individuals seek care for gum disease before their smiles have progressed to
more advanced stages of the condition. Some symptoms to look for include:
- Sensitive, bleeding gums
- Gums that recede from your teeth
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
Additionally,
some patients may be at greater risk of developing gum disease due to certain
behaviors, preexisting conditions, and other factors. For these individuals,
integrating effective oral health care is especially important in order to
minimize the risk of developing gum disease.
Helpful Tips for a Healthy Mouth
Preventing gum
disease starts with a comprehensive at-home dental hygiene routine. Be sure to
brush and floss at least twice a day, and rinse your mouth after eating sugary
or sticky foods.
It is also very
important to schedule regular dental visits, and avoid risk factors such as
tobacco products and excessive amounts of sugary foods or alcohol. Individuals
should also stick to a healthy, balanced diet, and keep an eye on your dental
health so that you can catch or prevent gum disease in its earliest stages.
How to Treat Gum Disease
For patients
that have already developed gum disease, seeking dental care can help prevent
more extensive damage to your dentition. There are many treatment methods
available, ranging from nonsurgical therapies to surgery in more serious cases
of gum disease. A professional, dental deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing,
can scrape away the tartar and plaque that causes gum disease, thereby giving
you a fresh start. After this deep cleaning, it is recommended the patient get
a professional dental cleaning twice a year, every year.
Save Your Smile - Make an Appointment
Today!
The first step
to protecting your smile from gum disease is a visit to your dentist. CallLight Dental Studios - University Place today to make an appointment or
schedule a dental cleaning. Our University Place dentists will ensure that your
teeth and gums are healthy and provide helpful tips for maintaining a healthy
smile between dental appointments.
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