Ways a General Dentist Can Help You Fight Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, affects many individuals. A large percentage of people over the age of 30 have some form of periodontal disease. Many general dentists diagnose and treat gum disease. But they can also help you avoid it in the first place. Keep reading to find out how your dentist can help you fight gum disease.

Gum disease

Gum disease usually starts with bacterial growth in the mouth. If left untreated, gums and bone can become damaged to the extent that teeth can fall out or may have to be removed and replaced. But a person can take steps to prevent gum disease and sometimes even reverse it. These include having regular dental checkups, brushing the teeth properly, and flossing daily.

Professional dental cleanings

Seeing the dentist often will help to keep the mouth clean and healthy. Routine exams and professional cleanings can prevent many oral health problems, including gum disease. They are also essential for detecting gum disease early. Plaque constantly forms on people’s teeth. When individuals do not clean their teeth thoroughly, it allows plaque to harden into tartar. The buildup of plaque and tartar on teeth can lead to many problems, such as gum disease and tooth decay.

If a person does not seek treatment, gingivitis can progress into a more serious type of gum disease, often referred to as periodontitis. It usually occurs when plaque and tartar spread below the gumline. Professional cleanings help to remove tartar from teeth. A professional cleaning can also help to reverse gingivitis.

It can involve scaling, which is when the dentist removes all the hardened tartar or plaque. The provider will then start root planing, which involves smoothing out the teeth roots. This promotes healing after the removal of the plaque and tartar. Tartar can build up in areas that are hard to reach, and it is hard to remove it. It is vital to visit the dental office twice a year or as recommended to keep tartar under control.

Brushing and flossing

Brushing the teeth is essential to a healthy mouth, teeth, and gums. It is advisable to use a soft-bristled toothbrush. It should be small enough to get into the hard-to-reach places. Dental floss removes food and plaque between the teeth and under the gums. When it comes to preventing gingivitis, flossing and brushing are very beneficial. The dentist may recommend oral healthcare products that can help to keep the mouth as healthy as possible.

Caring for your mouth

Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and cause many other problems. But many individuals can prevent gum disease by taking good care of their teeth. Brushing teeth twice every day and flossing daily usually prevent tartar and plaque from forming. But tartar is often hard to get rid of, and in some cases, it requires a visit to the dental office for a professional cleaning. Regular visits also allow dentists to detect the early signs of gum disease. To learn more about how to prevent gum disease, talk to your dentist today.

Request an appointment here: https://www.palmbeachdentistry.com or call Palm Beach Dentistry at (561) 225-2057 for an appointment in our Delray Beach office.

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