Gingivitis, also known as early stage gum disease, is inflammation and bleeding of the gums. Bacteria in plaque and calculus can irritate and damage the gums by causing inflammation and infection. Gingivitis can be treated successfully when you remove the plaque and calculus with professional cleanings by a dental hygienist. Daily brushing, flossing, and using an ADA endorsed mouthwash is also required to treat gingivitis.
Periodontitis, also known as advanced stage gum disease, is irreversible damage to the teeth, gums, and bone that support the teeth. Periodontal disease is caused by longstanding, untreated, plaque and calculus deposits on teeth. As gum inflammation and infection get worse, the following signs and symptoms can result: red swollen bleeding gums, bad breath, gum recession, sensitivity, cavities, abscesses, infection of the tooth pulp requiring root canal, loose and unstable teeth, and eventually loss of teeth.
Periodontitis can be treated when you remove the plaque and calculus with professional cleanings by a dental hygienist or referral to a Periodontist (gum specialist). Daily brushing, flossing, interproximal cleaning, and using an ADA endorsed mouthwash is also required to treat periodontitis.
Come in and make an appointment with our dental hygienist for your periodontal examination.
Oral Health
It takes just a few minutes a day to help ensure good oral health. Here are five things you can do to enjoy healthy gums and teeth.
- Brush your teeth daily. If you use a power toothbrush, choose one that offers rotation/oscillation action.
- Floss between your teeth daily to remove dental plaque. You can use floss, interdental brushes, picks, or irrigators.
- Rinse using an ADA endorsed mouthwash. This will help reduce the accumulation of dental plaque.
- Make healthy food choices. Nutritional food choices low in sugar are good for both your overall and oral health.
- Get regular professional dental hygiene care. Your biggest weapon in the battle to maintain good oral health is a regular visit with your dental hygienist. Why not make an appointment today?