Approximately 75% of adults in America will have some form of periodontal (gum) disease in their lives. And gum disease in Fullerton, CA, continues to be a leading factor in many cases of tooth loss. Research has also shown a high correlation between gum disease and other health concerns, especially heart disease. Because the soft tissue in your gums is connected to the rest of your body via nerves and veins, infection in your mouth could affect your overall health. Early intervention and proper treatment of gum disease may help protect you from further health complications.
How to Prevent and Treat Gum Disease in Fullerton, CA
Most patients will have some level of gum disease, but early intervention is key to preventing extreme damage. Minor cases of gum disease can be treated early on, providing improved oral health. But if gum disease goes untreated for too long, it could lead to worsening conditions such as tooth loss. If you brush and floss regularly and see your dentist at least twice a year, your chances of developing gum disease are significantly lower.
Signs of Gum Disease
While your dentist is trained to pick up on early signs of gum disease, it may not be as easy at home. However, there are some symptoms you can keep an eye out for that could indicate gum disease.
- Bleeding gums
- Red or swollen gums
- Shifting or loose teeth
- Receding gum line
- Consistent bad breath
- Changes to bite or fit of restorations (such as dentures)
When you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your dentist. If the culprit is gum disease, they can help provide treatment. If it’s not, they can examine your bite to determine the true cause.
Treatment for Gum Disease
If gum disease is caught in the early stages, early intervention can help prevent a full-blown case. For many patients, improvements to their oral hygiene routine are often enough to help restore their gum health. Your dentist may recommend using a different toothbrush, changing your floss, switching to a new toothpaste, or adding a mouthwash to your routine. They may also recommend getting an additional cleaning during the year to help ensure your gum line is clean and healthy.
If you have an extensive case of gum disease, a deeper cleaning is required. Scaling and root planing is a deep-clean method that can help remove disease in your gums. Once you have had extensive gum disease, however, it’s more important than ever that you get professional cleanings. Your dentist will likely set up a three-month periodontal maintenance cleaning schedule to help prevent the return or spread of disease.
Preventing Gum Disease
If you have gum disease, you could be at a higher risk of developing other health concerns. At Fullerton Craft Smiles, we believe that prevention is key when it comes to gum disease. Call our office today at (714) 888-7008 to schedule a consultation. We can examine your mouth to help identify ways you could improve your oral health and prevent gum disease.