Tips for Preventing Gum Disease
The best treatment for gum disease is taking active steps to prevent it. However, if you do suffer from gum disease, our dentists in Mason, Ohio, can assess your oral health and recommend options to relieve symptoms and preserve your gum tissue.
The early stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis, with symptoms including swollen or sensitive gum tissue that might bleed after brushing your teeth. If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to the more serious periodontitis, where the gums separate from the teeth and expose the underlying tissue to bacteria.
Gum disease has a wide variety of potential causes, from poor oral hygiene to genetic predisposition. Because susceptibility might vary, it’s important to take the following steps to reduce your risk of gum disease:
- Practice good at-home dental care, such as daily brushing, flossing, and use of an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Visit your dentist twice a year for professional checkups and cleanings.
- Eat a healthy diet rich in vitamins.
- If you smoke, quit.
If you develop gum disease, our Mason dentists might suggest a treatment option like scaling and root planing, a thorough cleaning beneath the gum line to remove plaque and other buildup all the way down to the roots of your teeth. Laser gum treatment, meanwhile, uses a gentle laser to remove bacteria from your gum tissue.
To find out more about gum disease prevention and treatment, please contact Hardin Advanced Dentistryor call 513-234-5531 today to schedule an appointment with our Mason dentists.