To feel fully confident in the health of your smile, you should pay attention to the health of your gums as well as your teeth. Bacteria that gather at the base of your teeth can infiltrate your gums, which can lead to gingivitis. If that infection is not met with proper treatment, it can lead to a more advanced infection that can create long-term difficulties. At our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office, we are prepared to work with you on addressing periodontal troubles so that you do not have to worry about the full threat of gum disease. If you exhibit signs of gingivitis during a routine dental exam, we can recommend a special scaling and root planing procedure. This advanced cleaning eliminates the bacteria beneath your gum line, which can allow these tissues to heal.
Gum Disease Can Become A Difficult Problem To Manage
How much concern should you feel over gingivitis? The term gingivitis refers to gum disease in its initial stage, when it can be effectively reversed. If you respond in time, you can stop gingivitis from causing further problems for your gums. Unfortunately, when an infection is not addressed in time, gum disease can become a permanent problem. At this stage, you have to worry about periodontal damage and attachment loss that can result in the loss of teeth. You can also face a higher risk for general health problems due to this condition. Fortunately, a person who suffers from gum disease at this level can have the problem maintained and controlled.
We Can Help Reverse Gingivitis Through A Scaling And Root Planing
If you have developed a problem with gingivitis, and your dentist identifies symptoms of this condition at your next routine appointment, a scaling and root planing can be performed. This is a different and more involved form of teeth cleaning that can be recommended in order to address periodontal troubles. Portions of your teeth below your gum line will be thoroughly cleaned and polished during this treatment. The cleaning helps with the bacteria that are currently present, while the polishing makes it more difficult for new bacteria to gather.
Symptoms Of Gingivitis That You Can Identify
A problem with an aching or sensitive tooth can warn you that you need restorative dental work. How can you determine if you have gingivitis? In addition to having your dentist check your smile, you can look for evidence of gingivitis by watching out for the following:
- Gums that bleed easily when you brush and floss
- Chronic bad breath
- Red or swollen periodontal tissues
- Changes in your gum line
Talk To Dental Impressions In Ankeny, IA If You Have Concerns About Your Periodontal Health
At Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, patients who are struggling with poor periodontal health can receive important care during their next visit. If you would like to learn more, or if you are due for a visit to the dentist, by calling our Ankeny, IA dental office at (515) 965-0230.
