Gum disease, aka periodontal disease, is a prevalent condition affecting millions worldwide.
Maintaining excellent oral health is vital for a beautiful smile and overall well-being. Gum disease, aka periodontal disease, is a prevalent condition affecting millions worldwide. So, detecting and treating it early can dramatically enhance your chances of reversing damage. This blog discusses how to recognize early gum disease and how to treat and prevent it.
The Warning Signs
- Red, tender, or swollen gums are often the first signs of gum disease. Healthy gums must appear pale pink and not bleed during flossing or brushing.
- Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, can be an indication too. Bacteria lingering in the gums can release foul-smelling gases, causing unpleasant breath.
- If the disease is allowed to progress, the gum line might begin to recede, making the teeth appear longer.
- Also, teeth overly sensitive to sweet or acidic foods or hot or cold temperatures might indicate gum issues.
- As gum disease advances, it may damage the underlying bone, causing the teeth to feel loose or move out of their normal position.
Treating Gum Disease
If you have noticed any bleeding of the gums, scheduling a check-up is critical. Your dentist will conduct a periodontal evaluation to measure the pockets surrounding your teeth. If our team in Annapolis Dental Care discovers they are infected, you will need deep teeth cleaning to halt the disease process. In addition, they will eliminate plaque and tartar buildup on the tooth surface and below the gum line. In some cases, antibiotics might be prescribed to combat bacterial infections connected with gum disease.
Prevention Matters Too
Prevention is also primary to avoiding infection. Maintaining good oral hygiene and remembering to floss between your teeth must be consistent to control bacteria and tartar. So, schedule regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings to detect any early indicators of gum disease. At Annapolis Dental Care, we will provide personalized recommendations based on our observations and your medical history.
Also, lifestyle factors matter. Eating nutritious, healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains supports oral health and boosts the immune system. In addition, quitting or avoiding tobacco can significantly enhance your ability to manage your health. Consequently, chronic stress will increase inflammatory processes in your body, including the gum tissues.
Feel Confident About Your Oral Health with Annapolis Dental Care
Whether it’s a regular check-up you need or a tooth extracted, your dentist in Annapolis is here to serve! Annapolis Dental Care has the expertise and compassion to work with you on improving your oral health. Your comfort and health are our top priorities, and so we go above and beyond to make our patients happy and give them the highest quality care. To set up an appointment today, please give us a call at 410-571-5014 or visit us online. For more oral health tips for you and your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube! We are always looking for new patients, so if you live in Arnold, Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, MD, come on down!