Ways to Prevent Gum Disease Progression

Dental concerns such as chips, cracks, decay, and more are items that dentists see frequently, often looking to restorative dentistry to assist. Concerns such as gum disease, however, often require a slightly different approach. As the most common dental concern there is, many individuals experience periodontal disease yearly. The unfortunate truth of the matter is, however, that it is often not acted on soon enough as many people simply are not aware of the point they should seek help. In today’s blog, your Pella, IA dentist looks at ways you can stay on top of your oral health by being proactive about gum disease and its symptoms.

Stay on Top of Appointments

As a major part of the standard preventive dental regimen, routine examinations and cleanings do much more than identify cavities. In fact, your dentist will carefully examine your teeth, gums, tongue, cheeks, throat, and roof/floor of the mouth for any signs of abnormalities, damage, or points of concern. When looking at the gums, specifically, your dentist will look for signs of bleeding tissues, discoloration, and even separation from the teeth, as these are all signs of periodontal disease.

Periodontal concerns are the most common oral concern out there, affecting nearly 3 million adult Americans per year. While it is a common concern, many fail to act in time, as they are unaware what to look for and do not stay on top of their 6-month checkups usually. Fortunately, our office is here to help!

Scaling and Root Planing

When harmful bacteria make their way beneath the gums, they attach to your teeth roots, forming plaque and tartar. If it is left untreated, it will continue to infect your teeth and cause concerns such as periodontal disease all while remaining unbothered and protected by your gums. To prevent this from progressing, your dentist may recommend a deep clean in which we will go beneath the surface to carefully but thoroughly remove these bacteria. We will then smooth the surfaces of the roots so as to prevent future reattachment and, ideally, preventing the progression of the disease. This process will take more than one visit, and your dentist will work with you to create a treatment plan that works best for you both.

Always Floss

One of the main practices you can take part in to prevent periodontitis is to always remember to floss. Flossing helps to dislodge food particles from between teeth near the gum lines that ordinary brushing may not be able to address. When food particles remain lodged, oral bacteria is drawn to it and feeds off of it, essentially luring them to the gums. By flossing regularly, you are able to mitigate this concern quite a bit.

Schedule Your Visit

Periodontal disease affects nearly 80 percent of adults, and while it is a common concern, it is not one to take lightly. Contact Allen & Neumann Family Dentistry in Pella, IA by calling 641-628-1121 to schedule your visit today.