Often when dental patients think about improving the appearance or health of their mouth, they focus on their teeth. There’s no shortage of whitening products on the market and cosmetic treatments such as adult orthodontics and professional teeth whitening products are gaining popularity all the time. However, teeth are not the only variable in the health of your mouth.
Keeping the gums, teeth, and tissue free from miniscule particles of food and the plaque it can cause is key to keeping your mouth healthy. The first, and most effective, way to keep your mouth healthy is to be consistent about regular brushing and flossing. However, most patients have hard to reach spots – like between the molars all the way in the back of your mouth that are nearly impossible to reach at home. These spots are the perfect environment for bacteria to grow and result in gum disease.
Gum disease can sound frightening, but it’s quite common. It often begins as gingivitis, causing gums to become swollen, red, or even bleed. While this stage of gum disease is reversible, if gingivitis is left untreated, pockets can form under the gum line which can lead to further complications. These complications include further damage to the gums, loss of bone, and degeneration of the tissues that support the teeth. If the gum disease is not treated, the teeth can become loose and require extraction.
However, it’s important to note that gum disease can not only be prevented with excellent at-home oral health care and regular dental visits, it can also be treated. If patients in the Redlands, CA, area find themselves dealing with gum disease they can turn to Dr. Terry Vines of Pure Gold Professionals in Dentistry for treatment. There are several treatment methods, including deep cleaning, prescription medication, and surgery.
Deep cleaning is often the first step to treating gum disease. This procedure takes place in Dr. Vines’ office where special instruments are used to remove pockets of plaque from above and below the gum line. Sometimes, prescription medication or mouth rinse is also recommended to control bacteria or treat further gum infection. Finally, sometimes, oral surgery is needed to treat gum disease. This surgery involves lifting the gums away from the teeth to remove all of the infection. The gums are then sutured tightly to allow the gums to re-attach to the teeth.
The exact treatment plan for you will depend on your individual case. If you’ve noticed the early signs of gum disease, call the Pure Gold Professionals in Dentistry office today to schedule an appointment.