Gum Treatment: A Comprehensive Guide to Your Oral Health
Healthy gums are the foundation of a beautiful smile and strong teeth. They should be pink and firm, keeping the teeth anchored in place. Healthy gums do not bleed during brushing or flossing. Maintaining good oral hygiene and early detection of changes in the gums are key to preventing gum disease and maintaining overall oral health.
Gum inflammation treatment with a focus on responsibility, quality, and innovation. At Dr. Ilan Preiss’s clinic, you can receive professional and advanced treatment for gum inflammation and gum recession. Contact us for consultation and appointment scheduling!
Early Symptoms of Gum Disease
Early detection of gum disease can prevent severe damage to teeth and gums. The main symptoms to watch for include:
– Swelling and redness of the gums.
– Bleeding gums after brushing or flossing.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your dentist as soon as possible for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Treatment for Gum Disease
Good Oral Hygiene as Preventive Treatment: Maintaining meticulous oral hygiene is the most important and initial step in preventing and treating gum disease.
Tips for Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene:
- Brush your teeth twice a day for about 3 minutes each time.
- Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss at least 3 times a week to remove plaque between teeth.
- Avoid smoking, which harms gum health and increases the risk of oral diseases.
- Regular visits to the dentist for check-ups and professional cleanings.
Professional Treatments Your Dentist May Recommend:
- Professional Cleaning and Polishing: To remove plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth and gums.
- Root Scaling: Deep cleaning of bacteria from the tooth roots, usually performed under local anesthesia.
- Medical Mouth Rinses: Using solutions containing chlorhexidine or hydrogen peroxide to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
- Antibiotics: In cases of severe infection, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to reduce inflammation and infection.
- Pain Relievers: For managing pain and discomfort caused by inflammation, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) may be used.
- Gum Surgery: In severe cases, surgical procedures may be needed to address damage to the gums and the supporting bone around the teeth.
Advanced Stages of Gum Disease
Diagnosis of periodontal disease
Causes of gum disease
Plaque Accumulation: The primary cause of gum disease is the buildup of plaque—a sticky layer of bacteria on the teeth.
Additional Factors Contributing to Gum Disease:
- Smoking: Increases plaque accumulation, restricts blood flow to the gums, and causes teeth staining.
- Certain Medications: Such as oral contraceptives, antidepressants, and heart disease medications, which may affect gum tissues.
- Stress: Weakens the immune system and leads to harmful habits like teeth grinding.
- Diabetes: Increases the risk of infections, including gum diseases.
- Genetic Predisposition: Approximately 30% of the population is genetically predisposed to gum disease.
- Hormonal Changes: During periods such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, gums are more susceptible to inflammation and bleeding.