How Do I Cure Gum Disease?
Often, in the care of dental health, people forget about an equally important part of the oral cavity – the gums. Gum diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious health problems, both for the oral cavity and the general health of the body. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, which manifests itself through swelling, redness, and bleeding when brushing teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis, an inflammation that also includes bone loss. This can lead to weakened tooth stability and increase the risk of tooth loss. So, can you cure gum disease?
The best way to cure gum disease is to remove excess plaque. This starts at home with proper oral hygiene. However, the most effective method of removing plaque is professional teeth cleaning by a dentist. During the visit, the doctor will not only get rid of the plaque but will also assess the condition of the teeth and introduce appropriate treatment if the inflammation of the gums is advanced. In case of acute inflammation, the dentist may prescribe the patient an antibiotic
Non-surgical treatment for gum disease
Nonsurgical approaches to treating gum disease are a key part of periodontal therapy, especially in the early stages of the disease. These methods focus on eliminating plaque and preventing further progression of the disease with minimal surgical intervention.
Scaling and sandblasting
This is a basic procedure for removing tartar and bacterial plaque from the surface of teeth. Performed using specialized tools, it allows for the removal of accumulated impurities, which are the main cause of gingivitis.
Curettage
It involves thoroughly cleaning the roots of teeth from bacteria and plaque using ultrasound or hand tools. This procedure allows for the removal of pathogenic organisms from areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush and dental floss.
Antiseptic rinses
Using mouthwashes containing antiseptics, such as chlorhexidine or tea tree oil, can help reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth and soothe inflammation of the gums.
Preventing Gum Disease
Preventing gum disease is key to maintaining oral health. It is worth knowing some of the most effective preventive methods that help prevent gum disease:
- Regular oral hygiene – brushing your teeth thoroughly for at least two minutes in the morning and evening, using dental floss, and using mouthwash supports the elimination of bacteria and food remains.
- Regular visits to the dentist – routine check-ups with the dentist allow for monitoring the health of the gums, early detection of potential problems, and professional teeth cleaning.
- Correct brushing technique – brushing your teeth should be gentle but thorough. Using too much force can damage your gums; choosing a soft toothbrush helps avoid irritation.
- Using dental floss – regular use of dental floss helps remove food debris and bacteria from places that are difficult for a toothbrush to reach, thus preventing gum problems.
- Healthy diet – a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and low in sweets and processed foods supports the health of gums by providing essential nutrients.
- Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption – excessive alcohol consumption can affect the health of your gums; limiting alcohol consumption benefits both your oral cavity and your overall health.
Maintaining a regular oral hygiene routine, a healthy lifestyle, and awareness of the importance of prevention are key elements in preventing gum disease. Taking care of the health of your gums translates not only into the aesthetics of your smile, but also to your overall health. Contact us today to make an important step towards a healthy mouth!