Your gums are an essential part of your smile, as they frame and support your teeth. When they become diseased, this could lead to discomfort and even tooth loss. But your Ankeny, IA, dentist has a few tips for keeping your gums healthy, so your smile stays beautiful and full for years to come!
The Dangers of Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease
According to the Centers for Disease Control, half of adults over the age of 30 suffer from periodontal disease. The issue starts with inflammation, also known as gingivitis, and can develop into periodontal disease with time. While gingivitis can be reversed, periodontal disease cannot, and care is needed instead to manage it so you avoid the later stages linked to uncomfortable symptoms and adult tooth loss. We want to help you enjoy good gum health to protect your smile!
Cleanings
Every six months, we want to see you for a routine dental cleaning, in which we use an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual pick to remove all plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your smile. Doing so helps lower the risk of issues like tooth decay and periodontal disease, and also fights bad breath and teeth stains. This is helpful for patients of all ages, including kids as young as age two! We complete the process by polishing the teeth, which not only brightens them, but makes it more difficult for plaque and tartar buildup to accumulate in between your visits.
Scaling and Root Planings
If you have symptoms of periodontal disease, then we may need to control the issue with a deep cleaning, also known as a scaling and root planing. This uses the same tools as the traditional cleaning, but we also remove harmful buildup from the roots and from under the gums too. This helps destroy pockets of bacteria as well. The process could take one visit or several, and we will numb the area to ensure you are comfortable. We then complete the process with a polishing, and may suggest traditional cleanings every three to four months.
Better Care at Home
We also want to make sure that you and your family take good care of your smiles at home in between these visits, which can help control harmful plaque and tartar buildup. For example, everyone needs to brush for two minutes when they wake up and again before bed, with each session involving the use of a fluoride toothpaste. Flossing before bed is essential too, as is cutting back on the amount of sugar and starch in your snacks and meals.
Dental Impressions Wants to Improve Your Periodontal Health
Our team wants to provide care to improve the health, function, and beauty of your smile, including your gums. To schedule your appointment and improve your gum health, then call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA today at (515) 965-0230.
