Have you recently noticed that your gums feel swollen or sensitive? Does it seem like your breath never feels fresh, even after brushing? These could be symptoms of periodontal disease, which happens when plaque buildups on and around your gumline. Finding out that you have periodontal disease can be worrisome, and you may wonder what you can do to take care of these symptoms. In today’s blog, your team at Contemporary Dental in Bellaire, TX, is here today to talk about preventing and managing periodontitis.
Take Care Of Your Gums At Home
As you may already know, you should practice your oral hygiene routine at home at least twice a day and visit your dentist regularly for checkups. This routine should include brushing for at least two minutes, flossing at least once a day, and using mouthwash to reduce bacteria. While all of these steps are key to keeping a healthy smile, flossing is often overlooked by many people. This step can help remove food particles from areas that your toothbrush cannot reach and can also help prevent bad breath. When flossing, make sure to gently cup around each tooth to remove food particles and bacteria. If you have questions about how to properly floss, your dentist can help demonstrate doing this properly.
Know The Signs Of Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, and it can be reversed if it is caught early enough. Unfortunately, later stages of periodontal disease cannot be reversed, so it’s important to know what signs to look out for. Plaque buildup on your teeth and gums can lead to the tissue feeling sensitive and swollen, and you may experience bleeding or redness around the area. If you notice these changes to your oral health, you should talk to your dentist as soon as possible. These symptoms alone may not mean periodontal disease, but a combination of them could be an indicator of the bacterial infection that causes gingivitis.
Scaling, Root Planing, And Gum Contouring
If your dentist does diagnose you with gingivitis, the earlier treatment is started, the earlier your symptoms can be relieved. Scaling and root planing can be done to remove plaque and tartar and smooth the roots of your teeth. Patients with more progressive forms of periodontal disease may need regular deep cleanings performed to help prevent the disease from progressing. Gum disease can lead to the tissue around your teeth receding or detaching from the tooth, but proper maintenance and additional treatments can help prevent this. Without deep cleanings, your symptoms can worsen and lead to tooth loss, halitosis, and more.
Learn More About Our Gum Care Services
Do you have questions about periodontal treatments? Call Contemporary Dental in Bellaire, TX, today at 713-668-9119 today to learn more.