Fight Gum Disease With the Right Dental Practices

Fighting Gum Disease With Good Oral Hygiene

Gum disease is extremely common among adults in the United States. In fact, estimates say that almost 50% of people are affected by this condition. But just because gum disease is widespread doesn’t mean there’s no way to avoid it. At S&L Dental, we take pride in helping our Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, AZ patients prevent and treat gum issues. Our dentists have years of experience with periodontal disease treatment, and he and his team are here to offer you the care you need. Find out all the ways you can fight gum disease with good oral hygiene.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It typically results from poor oral hygiene practices that allow plaque to build up on the teeth and harden. In its early stage, known as gingivitis, the gums become swollen and red and may bleed easily. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form where the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that can become infected. Fortunately, our team can help you spot the gum disease symptoms and recommend effective treatments.

Symptoms and Warning Signs of Gum Disease

Recognizing the signs early and seeking prompt treatment is crucial in managing and reversing the effects of gum disease. Be on the lookout for these tell-tale warning signs and get in touch with S&L Dental right away:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding gums after brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath
• Receding gum line
• Loose or shifting teeth

Know the Causes of Gum Disease

Understanding the causes of gum disease symptoms is key to avoiding further problems. Gum disease primarily stems from the buildup of plaque on your teeth. This buildup irritates the gum tissue around the teeth, leading to inflammation and infection. Factors such as smoking, poor nutrition, and pre-existing health conditions like diabetes can exacerbate gum disease by affecting the body’s ability to combat infection. Genetic predisposition, hormonal changes in women, and certain medications can also contribute to an increased risk of developing gum disease.

Ways You Can Fight Gum Disease and Gingivitis

Whether you’re already showing the signs of gum disease or you’re hoping to prevent them, S&L Dental can help. Here are our tips for gum disease self-care:

Take Control of Your Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene is the foundation of gum disease prevention. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is essential. Ensure you reach every tooth’s surface, including the gum line, where plaque tends to accumulate. Flossing daily is equally important as it removes food particles and plaque between teeth that your toothbrush might miss. We also recommend regularly replacing your toothbrush. A worn-out toothbrush can’t effectively clean your teeth and gums. Consider switching to an electric toothbrush, which can be more efficient in removing plaque.

Eat a Balanced Diet

What you eat plays a significant role in maintaining healthy gums. Vitamin C, found in citrus fruits and leafy greens, is particularly beneficial as it helps repair damaged tissues and promotes gum healing. We always suggest that our patients avoid sugary foods and opt for crunchy fruits and vegetables instead. These foods naturally clean your teeth and contribute less to plaque formation. Staying hydrated is also crucial. Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of plaque buildup.

Try to Quit Smoking

Quitting smoking can dramatically improve your gum health. It reduces inflammation and allows your body to heal, decreasing the risk of gum disease. If you’re struggling to quit, seek support from healthcare professionals or join smoking cessation programs. Taking this step doesn’t just benefit your gums—it enhances your overall health!

Manage Your Stress

Stress impacts your body in numerous ways, including your oral health. High stress levels can lead to teeth grinding and poor oral hygiene habits, increasing the risk of gum disease. Try incorporating stress-reducing activities into your daily routine, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies. These practices promote relaxation and reduce the production of stress hormones that can harm your gums.

Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash

Incorporating antibacterial mouthwash into your oral care routine adds an extra layer of protection against gum disease. It helps reduce plaque and bacteria in hard-to-reach areas, keeping your gums healthy. Choose a mouthwash with fluoride for added protection against tooth decay. While mouthwash shouldn’t replace brushing and flossing, it complements your oral care routine. This simple addition can make a significant difference in preventing gum disease and maintaining healthy gums.

Avoid Habits That May Harm the Gums

Certain everyday habits can harm your gums and increase the risk of gum disease. For one, using your teeth to open packages or chewing on hard candies can lead to gum injuries and an increased risk of infection. Instead of very hard foods, choose sugar-free gum to satisfy cravings and promote saliva production.

Schedule Regular Check-ups

If you’re worried about gum disease, be sure to see your dentist regularly. Dental professionals can detect early signs of gum problems and recommend gingivitis treatment. Schedule dental check-ups every six months or as needed. During these visits, a hygienist will remove tartar that brushing and flossing themselves can’t eliminate.

Explore Periodontal Disease Treatment Options

Are you seeing the signs of gum disease? S&L Dental can help. We provide a variety of periodontal disease treatments and can suggest the best course of action to address your condition. Here are some treatments for both mild and severe cases:

• Ongoing Maintenance Therapy—If we suspect the beginnings of gum disease, we might recommend more frequent cleanings. This allows us to alleviate your symptoms and stop them from worsening.
• Scaling and Root Planing—This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
• Antibiotics and Mouthwashes—We might suggest medicated mouthwashes or topical antibiotics to reduce bacterial infections and support healing.
• Soft Tissue Grafts—If your gum disease has progressed and you’ve lost gum tissue, we might order a graft to replace lost tissue.
• Flap Surgery—Severe cases of periodontitis require surgery. This procedure involves lifting the gums to allow for a deeper cleaning.

Helping You Manage Gum Disease Symptoms

The team at S&L Dental is here to help you manage your gum disease symptoms and work toward improved oral health. We understand that everyone’s oral health is different, and we’ll never make you feel ashamed because of your condition. Instead of shaming, our team strives to empower you to prioritize your gums and prevent any further problems. Contact us today to make an appointment with our friendly dentists.