When it comes to your oral health, it is important that you do not neglect your gums. This tissue acts as a barrier to infections and holds your teeth in place. You should be flossing twice a day, along with brushing your teeth. This can prevent problems like gingivitis which can cause the gingival tissue to swell, bleed, and can even be the cause of your bad breath. At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, we are here to help keep your gingival tissue and teeth healthy with preventive care and periodontal cleanings when necessary.
Protecting Your Gum Health
Taking care of your tissues improves more than just your dental health. Patients with periodontal disease are found to be at a higher risk of heart problems like strokes and attacks. Taking the simple step of flossing between your teeth every day can decrease the chances of gum and heart disease. When you floss, be sure to get between each tooth before brushing.
There are extra steps you can take to prevent periodontitis. Patients who smoke, drink heavily, or have high amounts of stress are at greater risk of developing this infection. Try to reduce the amount of alcohol you consume, cut back on your tobacco use, and find ways to lessen your stress. This, in combination with proper oral hygiene, can lessen the likelihood of gingivitis. Do not skip your biannual dental visits, as these can detect signs of cavities and periodontal disease early as well.
Scaling And Root Planing
Gum disease happens in stages. If caught in the beginning stage of gingivitis, there is a chance that you can reverse the effects. At your next checkup, your dentist will do a thorough examination of your oral cavity. If they recognize any changes in your gums, they may take a closer look. Inflammation, bleeding, and loose teeth are common signs of an infection. If these symptoms are noticed, they may diagnose you with gingivitis and recommend a deep cleaning to treat the problem.
A periodontal cleaning is different than the one performed during your standard cleaning. Scaling and root planing will be performed to clean under your gumline and reattach the tissue to your teeth. This can promote bone growth and prevent tooth loss in the future. For patients with gum disease in the later stages, you will likely need to have these cleanings done several times a year to manage your symptoms. If this disease is left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other problems.
Schedule A Periodontal Cleaning Today
If you have symptoms of gingivitis, it is important to have a deep cleaning done as soon as possible. To schedule this or another appointment, call Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, today at 915.759.7000