Good gum health is essential for keeping your teeth firm and avoiding uncomfortable symptoms. As part of our approach to protecting periodontal health, we can offer tips for preventing or even reversing gingivitis. In today’s blog, your Rochester, MN, dentist will explain how we safeguard your smile and prevent disease.
The Causes and Warning Signs of Gingivitis
Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, can lead to discomfort, such as red, sore gums that bleed easily. Inflammation is often brought on by plaque and tartar buildup, which irritate and inflame the gums. The buildup is often due to a combination of a diet high in sugar and starch, and infrequent brushing and flossing to control buildup. Lack of professional dental cleanings could also lead to the onset of inflammation as well. Without treatment, the inflammation could grow worse until the gums pull away from the teeth. Once they do, this forms pockets that disease-causing bacteria could enter, leading to periodontal disease and treating the stability of your smile.
Prevention and Treatment
Unlike periodontal disease, gingivitis can actually be reversed with care. To prevent the issue, be sure you see us every six months for a dental cleaning. Our team will use an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual pick to remove all plaque and tartar thoroughly and gently from the teeth. Once we do, we polish the teeth for a brighter appearance and a smoother finish. This helps protect the smile from inflammation. If you already have the warning signs of gingivitis, we could help reverse (or manage the early stages of disease) with a deep cleaning. Also known as scaling and root planing, this involves removing buildup from the teeth and the roots, and could take one to four visits, depending on the severity of your buildup. We could also discuss treatment and medications to help fight harmful bacteria and safeguard your smile.
Better Care at Home
At home you can help fight inflammation too! Be sure you brush twice a day for two minutes, once when you wake up and again before going to bed. You also need to floss thoroughly before you brush for the second time. Try to avoid tobacco products, and enjoy a diet low in sugar and starch. These actions help protect your smile from gingivitis, as well as tooth decay and infection! If you have any questions about protecting your periodontal health, then contact our team today.
TALK TO YOUR ROCHESTER, MN DENTIST ABOUT PERIODONTAL HEALTH
Our team wants to help you maintain a strong and healthy smile! If you would like to find out more about keeping gums healthy, or if you wish to book an appointment at our location, call Greenview Cosmetic And Family Dentistry in Rochester, MN at (507) 281-3659.
