Gum disease is progressive and subtle, however there are signs that may indicate the presence of gum disease such as bleeding, receding or inflamed gums, bad breath and periodontal pockets. There are 3 stages of gum disease – Gingivitis, Periodontitis and Advanced Periodontitis. These can be caused by several factors and can happen at any age.
Genetics, poor health conditions such as diabetes and poor oral care are all factors that can have a bearing on the development of gum disease, however if caught early it is eminently treatable and steps can be taken to prevent the development of more serious conditions.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease which is noticeable by a build-up of plaque at the gum line. Brushing and flossing may not remove the plaque well enough, which is why regular dental visits allow your dentist to remove any excess plaque thus preventing the inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) from developing. Gingivitis treatment is relatively easy to treat, and keeping it in check will aid in the prevention of more serious conditions developing.
We have put together a list of 5 ways to cure gum disease to help you with steps you can take to prevent or cure gum disease and stay healthy.
1. Good Oral Hygiene will keep plaque from building up
Early stages of gum disease can be kept in check with good daily oral care habits at home. Brushing twice a day and regular flossing of your teeth will prevent the buildup of plaque around the base of your teeth, along the line of your gums and cleans the spaces between your teeth. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles, or a good quality electric toothbrush, and replace your toothbrush (or toothbrush head) every three months. Flossing well removes the tiny bits of food that can get caught between your teeth, your dentist can show you good ways to floss your teeth without hurting your gums.
2. Regular Dental Check-ups
Regular visits to your Cheyenne Dentist, at least twice a year, will ensure that your teeth are professionally cleaned and scaled to remove any additional plaque or tartar that may have built up around or below the gum line. Your dentist can detect areas that may not be visible with home care and will be able to treat early signs of gum disease before it develops further.
3. Gingivitis Treatment, Root planning or Surgery
Gingivitis treatment involves professional cleaning and removal of all traces of plaque, tartar and bacteria. Scaling and root planning make sure that the areas below your gum line are clean and smooth which discourages further build-up of tartar and bacteria.
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and if treated effectively will prevent the progression to the more advanced stages of Periodontitis and Advanced Periodontitis. Treatment for the more advanced stages of gum disease involve repair to the damaged gums and possible removal of teeth, repairs of soft tissue or bone grafts.
4. Quit or reduce smoking
Tobacco products and smoking increase the chances of gum disease. Smoking elevates the amount of pollution in contact with your teeth and mouth, which increases the chance of gum inflammation and the progression of other periodontal conditions.
Reducing or quitting smoking, along with a healthy lifestyle and god oral habits, are the best methods to prevent the onset of gum disease.
5. Healthy Diet and Nutrition
A healthy diet and good nutrition will boost your immune system and reduce the chances of infection. The intake of Calcium and Vitamin D improves bone density which wards off osteoporosis, improves dentition and tooth retention.
A healthy diet and lifestyle along with vigilant oral care and regular Dental check-ups are the best preventative methods to avoid gum disease. With this regime, any irregularities will be picked up early and will be treated before becoming chronic.
