Curious about what general dentistry professionals recommend for healthier gums? Read on to find out. Your gums support your teeth. If the gums and underlying jawbone are weakened, then teeth are vulnerable to becoming lost if left untreated for an extended amount of time. The good news is that you can have healthier gums through regular general dentistry visits and good oral hygiene between visits.
A general dentistry guide to healthier gums
General dentistry practices focus on all aspects of oral health. Healthy gums offer numerous benefits, including a more attractive smile, better support for teeth, and improved overall health in many cases. This article discusses the importance of healthier gums and how to keep your gums healthy.
An overview of periodontal health
The term periodontal refers to the structures that support teeth. Most notably, this includes the gums and the jawbone. If the health of the gums or jawbone is negatively affected, then it could put the teeth at risk of complications as well. The most common causes of gum disease are poor oral hygiene, infrequent dental visits, and a diet that consists of an excessive amount of carbohydrates. General dentistry practices work with patients to help prevent periodontal disease from developing.
The risks of chronic gum disease
Gum disease that is left untreated for an extended amount of time could lead to some severe complications, such as gum recession, deep gum pockets, tooth sensitivity, oral infections, and even tooth loss. The good news is that general dentists can detect gum disease early in patients that visit for a check-up and cleaning several times a year and can take prompt action to avoid the symptoms from worsening into a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis.
The importance of regular dental visits for healthy gums
Regular dental visits play an important role in gum health. During a routine visit, the dentist can assess the condition of the patient’s gums and promptly treat any early signs of gum disease if necessary. Otherwise, early symptoms could worsen and require the need for more invasive periodontal treatments.
How to care for gums in between dental visits
It is important to practice good oral hygiene by brushing several times a day and using mouthwash and floss once per day or as directed by your dentist. Smoking and tobacco use can also increase the risk of gum disease, along with excessive consumption of sugar and other carbohydrates.
Common general dentistry treatments for healthier gums
The most common procedures for healthier gums are routine dental cleanings and scaling and root planings (deep dental cleanings). Deep dental cleaning procedures clean below the gum line, whereas a routine cleaning cleans along the gum line.
Want to improve your gum health?
If you are experiencing symptoms such as swollen, tender, or bleeding gums, then contact our general dentistry practice today to schedule a visit. Gum disease is not a major concern when detected and treated early, and our dental practice is here to help you achieve healthier gums and better oral health overall.
Request an appointment or call A.Y. Family Dental at 630-689-0119 for an appointment in our Naperville office.
Related Posts
General dentistry allows people to seek dental treatments from someone who knows them well. It is important to give an accurate diagnosis. This is possible with the use of dental X-rays. If you want to know if dental X-rays are advisable in general dentistry, here are the details.Decades ago, a dental X-ray was a long…
General dentistry focuses on preventative dentistry, but it also includes restorative treatments that address problems like a loose tooth. A tooth becoming loose may eventually lead to it falling out of its socket, so such issues should never be ignored.General dentistry has multiple ways to address issues like a loose tooth. It often comes down…
Teeth cleanings are an integral part of general dentistry and are encouraged several times a year. Continue reading to learn more about the importance of keeping regular cleaning appointments. A common misconception is that visiting the dentist is only necessary when there is a noticeable concern with oral health. However, the best way to deal…