How To Manage Periodontal Disease

Dentists insist on proper dental care and hygiene. If we don’t clean our oral structures well, plaque and bacteria can build-up, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Similarly, it’s recommended you visit your dentist at least twice a year for dental exams and professional cleaning. During the exam, your dentist will likely notice any problems with your oral structures in the early stages and address them accordingly.

Similarly, having your mouth cleaned with your hygienist eliminate plaque or bacteria build-up, lessening your risk of developing dental problems. Poor dental hygiene is closely associated with gum disease.

If not appropriately addressed in its early stages, gum disease, also known as gingivitis, can progress to a much worse condition known as periodontal disease. If you and your loved ones suffer from periodontitis, this article explains how you can prevent it from getting worse.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease or periodontitis is the inflammation and infection of the gums and bone supporting and surrounding the teeth. At its initial stages, it’s known as gingivitis. Swollen and red gums characterize this phase, and in some cases, bleeding gums.

In a more severe form, gum disease is periodontitis or periodontal disease. Gums begin to pull away from the tooth during this phase, and significant bone can be lost. In worse cases, teeth may loosen and fall out.

Signs that you may have gum disease include:

• Red or swollen gums
• Bad breath that doesn’t go away
• Painful chewing
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Gums pulling away from the teeth
• Tender or bleeding gums

Contact or visit a dentist if you experience any severe symptoms or complications from gum disease.

How to Manage Periodontal Disease

Things you can do to manage periodontitis and prevent it from getting worse include:

1. Scaling and Root Planing

Your dentist can mitigate the effects of periodontal disease through scaling and root planing. The hygienist cleans the gum pockets around your teeth during the periodontal pocket treatment and smoothes the roots. This procedure helps remove any plaque around the gums, paving the way for the receding gums to reattach to the teeth.

2. Have It Treated

If you suspect that you have periodontitis, it’s essential to have it treated as soon as possible. Failure to do so can lead to severe side effects such as tooth loss and jawbone loss.

3. Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings and Check-ups

Brushing your teeth and gums can be challenging if you have periodontal disease. Visiting your dentist near you for professional cleaning will help eliminate any plaque or bacteria in the affected area. Additionally, during dental check-ups, your dentist can monitor the progress of your condition and act accordingly.

4. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Brushing and flossing will ensure you remove any food particles or debris trapped in between the teeth. This will lessen the chances of the gum disease worsening or spreading to other areas. Make sure you use a soft toothbrush to prevent irritating the gums. To strengthen your jawbone and teeth, use toothpaste that contains fluoride. Please avoid using any harsh dental products as they can irritate or worsen the condition.

5. Avoid Poor Habits

Smoking and eating sugary foods can worsen infection in the gums, worsening your condition. Conversely, quitting poor habits can significantly strengthen your immune system, making it easier to fight off any infections.

Is Periodontal Disease Reversible?

At its early stages, gum disease can be reversed. Unfortunately for periodontal disease, it can’t be reversed, only managed. It’s therefore important not to waste any time if you think you have gum disease. Contact Jeffrey L. Cohen if you’re looking for a periodontal dentist.

Risk Factors

Factors that can worsen or increase your risk of developing periodontal disease include:

• Health conditions such as diabetes and AIDS
• Heredity
• Smoking
• Poor oral hygiene
• Stress and medication
• Crooked teeth
• Defective restorations
• Female hormonal changes

Schedule an Appointment Today

Are you looking for a gingivitis cure, or do you need help managing periodontitis? Contact Jeffrey L. Cohen DDS, to book your appointment today.