Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings keep your mouth in good shape along with good oral hygiene habits. The older a person gets, the more important this becomes. Dental decay is not the only thing that can cause a problem for your teeth.
Gum disease can take a great toll on your oral health if left unchecked. For many older adults tooth loss occurs as a result of gum disease rather than tooth decay. With early detection and proper treatment, gum disease can be turned around and eliminated. Even in advanced stages, it can be treated through more extensive measures that need to be taken when that is the case.
The treatment for gum disease depends on the extent of the problem. In the earliest stages, treatment may consist of a thorough professional cleaning of the teeth and use of prescribed mouthwash and/or toothpaste. More pervasive gum disease will require more aggressive treatment. A thorough exam of your gingival tissues is part of the comprehensive exam where Dr. Truong will discuss with you an effective plan towards gingival health.
Under normal conditions, the mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria. Saliva is constantly bathing the teeth and gums and without proper oral hygiene, a clear sticky substance called plaque builds up on teeth. When brushing and flossing are further neglected, the plaque can turn into a hard substance called tartar or calculus. This hardened substance does not respond to brushing or flossing. The only way it can be eliminated is with dental instruments designed to remove it.
Red, puffy gums that bleed upon brushing or flossing are indicators of gum disease. If you have these symptoms, make an appointment right away to have your gums checked for gingivitis.
Preventive care is the best way to keep gum disease from disrupting your life and your smile. However, if you suspect you do have gum disease, contact The Grove Family Dentistry for a thorough assessment and cleaning.
