Keeping Your Mouth Gum Disease Free

Everyone wants a healthy smile.

After all, our dental health is a good indication of our overall health, so it’s important to have healthy teeth and gums. As a result, one of the main things to keep an eye out for is gum disease. 

Gum disease comes in many forms from a wide variety of causes - some you may not be able to control. As a result, if you notice the beginning signs of gum disease, which can include irritation and discomfort, rather than being embarrassed, it’s important to reach out to your dentist to begin treatment.

If you’re interested in learning more before going to your dentist, however, here is a brief guide to identifying, treating, and preventing gum disease. 

What is gum disease?

Gum diseases are a variety of conditions that impact the health of your mouth, specifically your gums. The two most common forms are gingivitis and periodontal disease.

Gingivitis is characterized by inflammation of the gums. It can occur when bacteria lines the socket of your gums, usually from lack of flossing, and causing an infection. While uncomfortable, gingivitis doesn’t cause any irreversible damage to dental tissue or your teeth so long as treated quickly and efficiently.

However, if not treated, there is a possibility that gingivitis can develop into periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease, also known as periodontitis, is an advanced form of gum disease that can lead to long-lasting and severe damage. With periodontitis, the bacteria lining your gums produce toxins that begin to break down your dental tissue. The result is gum recession - a condition where your gums and even bones pull away from your teeth, leading to other concerns such as tooth loss. 

Preventing Gum Disease

The key to preventing, and even reversing, the signs of gum disease, is to practice proper dental hygiene. 

Proper dental hygiene involves brushing your teeth 2-3 times a day, as well as flossing and rinsing. You should also avoid highly acidic or sugary food whenever possible. 

It also involves proper plaque prevention. Plaque can only be removed in a professional setting, which is why it’s so important to schedule and attend appointments with your dentist for cleanings twice a year.

Not only will these bi-annual appointments allow for professional cleaning, it will also allow your dentist to keep an eye on your dental health. As a result, you’ll be able to catch the signs of gum disease sooner, allowing you to work to treat and reverse them before it’s too late. 

Gum Disease Treatment

It’s important to look into treatment as soon as you notice the first signs of gum disease. After all, the sooner you begin to treat a condition such as gingivitis, the better chances you have at preventing any other conditions like periodontal disease from developing. 

One of the first steps in treating gum disease is to identify the cause. Gum disease has many causes, from hormonal disorders to smoking to incorrect or lack of brushing. If you’re struggling to figure out exactly what may be causing your gum disease, your dentist should be able to help. 

After you have located the root of the problem, you’ll be able to work on correcting it to help prevent your gum disease from recurring. At the same time, your dentist will work on helping you treat your gum disease through restorative density and proper oral hygiene. 

Final Thoughts

When it comes to dental and gum disease, prevention is the best cure. However, doing so on your own can be difficult, which is why it’s important to visit your dentist for biannual cleanings and appointments.

At Kennedy Heights Dental Centre, we strive to provide our patients with a positive and relaxing experience. If you're ready to experience the best dental care, please contact us at 778.438.2084. or visit us at 11960 88 Ave, Delta, BC V4C 3C8.