If you are not taking good care of your gums, you can put yourself at risk for more significant oral health issues – and general health issues – than you might realize. At first, an infection of your tissues results in gingivitis. This can lead to some early warning signs of trouble like bleeding tissues, swelling, discoloration, and even the movement of your gum line. The problem can be effectively treated with good brushing and flossing habits, as well as with an ultrasonic scaling provided at our Prairie Village, KS dentist’s office. If the matter is not addressed in time, you can experience a more advanced form of infection, one that leads to long-term difficulties and a heightened risk for tooth loss!
Pay Attention To The Warning Signs Of Gingivitis
There are ways to identify signs of periodontal infection at home. Has it become difficult to avoid problems with bleeding when you floss and brush? Do your gums appear swollen or discolored, and do they often feel sensitive? These issues, along with an increased concern about bad breath, can warn you that you have gingivitis. Thoroughly cleaning your teeth at your gum line will help with this. During a routine dental checkup, your dentist will point out any signs of infection that are present before recommending an ultrasonic scaling to deal with the bacteria causing you trouble.
Steps You Should Be Taking To Prevent Gum Disease
If you leave your gums vulnerable to infection, you make yourself susceptible to more severe problems associated with gum disease. Those problems include the movement of bacteria through your bloodstream to other parts of your body, attachment loss that will make teeth vulnerable to being lost, and unsightly gum tissue recession. You can avoid these problems by consistently flossing and brushing, with a special effort made each day to clean at the base of your teeth. Leaving flossing out of your routine or not taking the time to brush thoroughly will make the buildup of bacteria at your gum line more difficult to prevent, which means you become vulnerable to infections.
An Ultrasonic Scaling Can Restore Your Gum Health
An ultrasonic scaling is different than a traditional teeth cleaning. While teeth cleanings provided by your hygienist are thorough, they stay above your gum line and only clean your crowns (the portions of teeth above your gum line). An ultrasonic scaling is performed in order to remove bacteria beneath your gum line. When these spaces have problems with bacteria buildup, it can create problems with gingivitis that worsen gradually. This service is only recommended when your dentist identifies signs of gingivitis during an exam.
Your Prairie Village, KS Dentist Can Help You Avoid Problems With Gum Disease
Dr. Browne is ready to help patients who are struggling with gum disease! Periodontal health is important – without the proper care, an infection can become a serious issue for your smile and general well-being. To find out more, contact our Prairie Village, KS dental office today at 913-901-8585.
