My family's dental health is important to me. Unfortunately for me, it is not as important to my little ones. Getting my kids to brush and floss on a daily basis is almost like taking on an obstacle course. I talked to my family's dentist about different methods I could try to encourage them to brush and floss on a regular basis. Some of the tricks worked, some did not. After some experimentation and talking to other parents, I was able to come up with a lot of great tips for helping kids care for their teeth. I started this blog to help other parents get creative when it comes to their kids and dental care.
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A Guide to Creatively Handling a Child's Dental Health
Is It Possible To Reverse Gum Disease? Common Questions Answered
Bella Snyder
Gum disease is one of the oral health conditions you might get if you don't brush and floss properly and don't schedule dental cleanings. While its effects can be severe, particularly if it has progressed, you shouldn't lose hope.
The situation can change if you seek gum disease treatment right away. But, if you stay without getting treatment, your dental system's health will be significantly affected, and you might lose teeth.
What's Gum Disease?
This is an oral condition whereby the gum tissue becomes irritated and infected. This infection can be categorized into two types: the mild form called gingivitis and the severe condition known as periodontitis.
Usually, it's easier to reverse the effects of gingivitis, provided the treatment is provided soon enough. But, if you ignore the issue and it worsens (periodontitis), treating or reversing its impact will not be easy.
How Can You Identify Gum Disease?
The key to seeking treatment on time is knowing the signs. During the initial stages of the condition, one may notice symptoms like inflamed or swollen gums, bleeding, irritation, tenderness, and discoloration. If the infection has progressed without treatment, you will see signs like gum recession, gum pocket, and loosened or failing teeth.
What If You Don't Get Treatment Even After Getting Periodontitis?
When you get gum disease and fail to reverse the effects, your teeth will not get the support they require from the gums and jawbone. Gums will start to recede, and some pockets may appear between the teeth. The pockets grow deeper, a process that may cause significant gaps between the teeth, affecting jawbone density. Once the teeth roots are exposed, you will start experiencing discomfort.
How Do Dentists Treat Gum Disease?
As mentioned before, gum disease is treatable, and its effects are reversible. Once you visit the dentist, they will conduct some tests to know the severity of the condition. Gingivitis treatment requires patients to adhere to their oral care routine and show up for cleanings.
Handling periodontitis is trickier, but that doesn't mean all hope is lost. You can still get treatment and learn ways to manage things in the long term. One of the extensive treatments is pocket reduction surgery.
If you don't have pockets between the teeth, the dentist will perform a deep dental cleaning to remove the plaque and tartar under the gum line. Once treated, the dentist will share tips to help you prevent gum disease. This often includes good dental hygiene practices and regular dentist appointments.
For more info, contact a local dentist.
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