There are signs of poor periodontal health that you can notice on your own. However, you should not assume that you have no problems just because you have not noticed any issues that have you concerned. Even when you are confident in the health of your smile, you should consistently see your dentist for routine exams and cleanings. In the course of your visit, your Ankeny, IA dentist can identify warning signs of gingivitis. After recognizing the problem, we can address it through a periodontal cleaning that removes bacteria from your gum line. Without treatment to fight these bacteria, an infection can grow worse, and that can lead to problems that impact your dental and general health.
Are You At Risk For Gum Disease?
When bacteria build up at your gum line and start to gather at the roots of your teeth, you can experience problems with gingivitis. This is an issue that can affect many people, though with the appropriate preventive care you can stop a problem from developing. If gingivitis is not dealt with in time, bacteria can keep spreading after making their way under your periodontal tissues. When this occurs, it will cause complications that make your condition more difficult to manage.
Addressing An Infection During A Routine Appointment
At a routine exam, your dentist will closely study your smile to see if there are any issues with gum disease, or problems with tooth decay that you should know about. While it can be frustrating to hear that you do have a problem, that detection can lead to treatment before complications occur. For cavities, we can provide dental fillings that cover spaces where decay formed and had to be removed. For gingivitis, we can recommend that you undergo a periodontal cleaning instead of a routine dental cleaning. This more involved care removes bacteria that are already under your gum line, which can stop a problem from worsening and becoming harder to treat.
What Can You Do To Prevent Future Problems With Gingivitis?
By regularly scheduling and attending your routine dental exams, you provide yourself an important degree of protection against periodontal problems. However, you should take care to protect yourself by practicing an effective oral hygiene routine at home. One reason why flossing should take place daily is that you can deal with the buildup of bacteria between teeth and against your gum line. This habit, along with brushing at least twice a day, can stop harmful microbes from moving below your gum line to cause an infection.
Talk To Your Ankeny, IA Dentist About Gum Disease
Your Ankeny, IA dentist’s office is prepared to help you take on problems with gum disease! For more information on how we can help you prevent and fight gingivitis, contact Dental Impressions at (515) 965-0230 to schedule a visit.
