Learn how you can protect your gum health with help from your dentist in Tustin CA.
Along with tooth decay, gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss among American adults. This statistic is very sad considering that gum disease is both treatable and preventable. This FAQ will help you understand how to protect your gum health with help from your dentist in Tustin CA.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an inflammatory condition caused by an overabundance of plaque bacteria on your teeth. These bacteria release acids and other toxic byproducts which not only wear away tooth enamel but also irritate and damage gum tissue. The initial stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is relatively mild, but if the disease is left untreated the bacteria will move deeper into the pockets between the teeth and gums. The gums may begin to recede and slight bone loss may even begin. This stage is called periodontitis. If treatment is still not sought, the disease may progress to become advanced periodontitis. At this point the gum and bone structure will be so weakened that teeth may become loose or even fall out.
How Can I Tell If I Have Gum Disease?
The most common symptoms of early gum disease (gingivitis) include gums that are red, tender, or swollen, and/or bleed when you brush or floss. If you have any of these symptoms, it would be wise to visit the dentist in Tustin CA for a professional diagnosis.
How is Gum Disease Treated?
The most effective way to treat gum disease in its early stages is simply improving your oral health. For gingivitis, a routine dental cleaning is recommended. For periodontitis, a special periodontal deep cleaning will be needed to remove the excessive buildup of bacteria and tartar along the gum line. For truly advanced cases, surgery may be required to correct deep gum pockets and help protect them from further infection.
What Does a Periodontal Deep Cleaning Involve?
Sometimes called scaling or root planning, periodontal deep cleaning is a special procedure performed by your dental hygienist. The procedure will most likely take two visits, with half of your mouth being cleaned on each visit. The dental hygienist will begin by applying a local anesthetic to your gums. Then they will use an ultrasonic scaling tool to help remove plaque and tartar that has accumulated on your teeth beneath the gum line. The hygienist will then follow up with a hand tool to remove any remaining stubborn tartar. Following this procedure, your gums may feel a bit sore, but after a few days this will fade.
How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?
The best way to prevent gum disease is to keep your teeth clean. This means brushing and flossing daily, and keeping up with your annual routine dental cleanings. If you have had periodontitis in the past, your dentist may recommend that you get more frequent cleanings to help stay on top of plaque and tartar buildup—say every 3 to 4 months rather than once or twice per year.
