If you have symptoms such as swollen or red gums, it could be a sign of gingivitis. This is an infection of the gums that can lead to periodontal disease if it is left untreated. Periodontitis is one of the leading causes of tooth loss for adults today and can cause several oral health concerns. In today’s blog, your Dental Impressions team in Ankeny, IA, discusses how we can help prevent and manage gingivitis.
Read more: Do You Have Periodontal Disease? We Can Help You Manage Your SymptomsKnow The Cause Of Gum Disease
The primary cause of periodontitis is poor oral hygiene. Adults who smoke or have other health conditions are at a higher risk of this infection. If you do develop periodontal disease, it cannot be reversed, but your symptoms can be managed with regular deep cleanings. Plaque can build up on your teeth and gum line, leading to decay and gingivitis. It’s important to practice an efficient oral hygiene routine at home that consists of brushing and flossing twice a day to prevent this buildup.
As a general rule, it’s recommended that you visit your dentist twice a year for a checkup. Your dentist can look out for signs of gingivitis so that it can be prevented and treated when necessary. Gingivitis is the first stage of this disease and may include symptoms such as swollen or red gingival tissue, bad breath, or bleeding when you floss. If you experience any of these signs, it’s important that you see your dentist as soon as possible. The infection can progress into a more serious form of gum disease if left untreated.
How Periodontal Cleanings Can Help
When you come in for your biannual checkup, you will get a cleaning and examination done of your oral cavity. Special tools will be used to remove plaque buildup from your teeth to help prevent cavities. Then, your smile will be thoroughly examined to check for signs of cavities and other oral health concerns. If you are experiencing symptoms of gingivitis, you will need to come in for deep cleanings, which are more thorough than a standard cleaning.
A periodontal cleaning includes scaling and root planing to help remove plaque and tartar buildup from your gumline. Depending on the severity of your infection, you may need several of these done each year to help manage your symptoms. Along with these cleanings, you should continue to do your oral hygiene routine at home. Without treatment, your gingival tissue can become further irritated, may recede, and you may experience tooth loss, which can affect your oral health and physical health.
Talk To Our Team To Learn More
Call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, today at 515-965-0230 to learn more about how we can help you manage your symptoms of gum disease.
