If you’ve ever experienced red, swollen gums that bleed easily when you brush and floss, you may be on the path to gum disease.
Gum disease is the most common cause of tooth loss, and has also been linked to other health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Fortunately, an effective oral hygiene routine will prevent the progression of gum disease and improve your overall oral health.
Periodontal disease or gum diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections that, left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. The main cause of periodontal disease is bacterial plaque, although smoking, stress, diet and other factors can also affect the health of your gums.
Periodontal disease and gum diseases can be preventable. Some tips to prevent these diseases are:
- Brush your teeth after every meal if possible, or at least twice a day. This removes any food debris or plaque which may be caught in between your teeth and gums. Don’t forget to brush your tongue.
- Floss at least once a day. This ensures that food particles which may be stuck between teeth, along the gum line, in gaps or in areas which your toothbrush cannot reach are removed.
- Use a mouthwash.
- Know your risk. Age, smoking, genetics and diet can all increase the chances of developing periodontal disease. If you are aware of your risks, be sure to talk to us about it.
- Visit the dentist regularly. During your dental examinations, a periodontal evaluation is conducted where your teeth, plaque level, gums, bite and bone density is examined which can identify any symptoms of the development of gum disease.
- Have your regular x-rays taken as a preventative. X-rays allow the dentist to better analyse the health of your gum and bone before any damage is done.
Your Dental Excellence dentists provide a comprehensive assessment of the health of your gums and bone to give you options available to you. We provide you with a treatment plan that suits you and your needs. We help guide you to develop key strategies to improve and maintain results.
To learn more about Periodontal Disease treatment options, Click Here.
