December 2, 2024

How To Keep Your Gum Disease From Worsening 

For people who like to take care of their dental health, experiencing a gum problem is a nightmare. Your gums may bleed and become swollen, and pus may come out of them. All of these are signs of an underlying periodontal problem. If left untreated for a long time, it could give you a hard time chewing even the softest food items. 

Dentists recommend getting dental care for your family in Burlington, ON, as soon as you experience the first signs of gum disease. Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease, and things can escalate pretty fast when appropriate care is not given. Read this blog to understand why gum care is important. 

Is gum disease reversible?

Gum disease is caused when plaque is not cleaned from the tooth surface properly and builds up with time. This plaque destroys the tooth enamel, one of the most important parts of your dental health. You have a higher risk of gum disease when you neglect brushing and flossing. 

When you visit your dentist for a check-up or prognosis of your gum disease, three factors are considered: 

  • What you do at home
  • What dentists do for you
  • Your genetics

While the first two factors are in your control, you cannot really control the genes you have received from your parents. However, what you can do is find out at an early age if your family has a history of dental problems. If they do, you must make a note to visit your dentist for regular check-ups at least twice a year or more often. 

Can gum disease be reversed?

Yes. Gum diseases can be reversed by practicing good oral hygiene. Scaling and root planning treatments can help mitigate the damaging effects of periodontitis. Periodontal treatment can help you manage some serious side effects as well, such as tooth loss and receding gums. 

In periodontitis, patients have deep gum pockets filled with plaque. This is an advanced condition that cannot be reversed by brushing at home. Only a professional dentist can remove the plaque and smooth out your tooth roots. 

Gum health has links with overall well-being 

Poor dental health may not cause death directly, but they can inflict way more serious problems than just toothaches and gum bleeding. Poor dental health is linked with the following conditions:

  • Osteoporosis
  • Dementia
  • Diabetes
  • Pregnancy complications
  • Oral cancers
  • Heart disease

The research proving these links should be enough reason for anyone to visit their dentist more often. So, get a new toothbrush and find a good dentist today.