Are your gums red and swollen?
Do your gums feel tender or painful?
Do your teeth bleed when you brush or floss?
Do you have bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth?
Are your teeth sensitive to cold?
Does it appear your teeth look longer?
Are your teeth loose?
All of these are potential signs of periodontal disease, which should not be taken lightly. The best defense is swift action and professional diagnosis. Take your symptoms to your dentist and describe your concerns. Your dentist will review your medical history, examine your teeth and gums, and measure the space between your gums and teeth to make a determination or your best treatment. Dental X-rays may also be required to see if there has been significant bone loss, depending on how advanced the disease is.
Types of Treatment
If your periodontal disease is in the early stages, it is likely that nonsurgical treatments can be effective to remove the plaque/tartar from your teeth and the bacteria from your mouth to begin the healing process.
If your periodontal disease is advanced, treatment may require dental surgery to reduce the pockets or space between your teeth and gums. Soft tissue grafts can help reduce the gum recession as well as improve the visual appeal of your smile. In severe cases, bone grafting may be needed to help arrest bone loss and serve as a base for regrowth of natural bone.
Don’t Procrastinate – Act Now!
If you suspect that your teeth and gums are unhealthy or tending toward periodontal symptoms, don’t delay. Contact your dentist, make an appointment, and begin some home remedies as follows:
- Brush more frequently; minimum twice daily or after every meal
- Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months
- Floss daily or before each brushing
This is just a brief list of lifestyle improvements that can help reduce inflammation and oral disease. Consult with your dentist for a comprehensive plan to restore the health of your teeth and gums. A healthy mouth is a happier you. Smile more and the world will smile back.
Contact our office for more information or for an oral examination. Take care of your teeth, your gums, and your health today!