When most people think about their oral health, they most often think about their teeth. However, our gums are often one of the most neglected parts of our mouths, and when faced with the onset of bacteria, they can be affected by gum disease. Gum disease is a complex disease that’s difficult to treat in its later stages, and when it progresses to periodontal disease, people with this disease will often feel like they’re facing a life-long battle with their gums. We’re here to help you with your oral health by giving you the most up-to-date information about gum disease treatment, how often it needs to be done, and what you can do now to protect your gums from periodontal disease.
What Happens When You Need Gum Disease Treatment?
Gum disease occurs in three stages of development, and your treatment depends on your current stage. These stages include:
- Plaque Buildup: If you haven’t brushed your teeth, it can take up to 24 hours for plaque to develop along the teeth and turn into tartar. The plaque builds on the surface of the teeth and releases an acidic substance that slowly damages the gums and teeth. While brushing, flossing, and oral rinses can protect against plaque, getting regular dental cleaning is one of the best methods to prevent gum disease in the first place.
- Gingivitis: Gingivitis is considered the early stage of periodontal disease and the most easily treatable. Gingivitis is inflammation in the gums caused by bacteria, causing them to swell and bleed regularly. It can be an uncomfortable experience, but getting a dental cleaning during this time can help prevent it from becoming more severe.
- Periodontitis: Once it reaches periodontitis, the gums, and other connective tissues in the mouth become damaged. The bacteria can reach into the bone and cause bone loss over time and create deep pockets in the gums or gum recession. Tooth loss is almost inevitable, and deep dental cleanings are needed to help reverse its effects.
Because of the severity of this disease and how it progresses, your gum disease treatment will depend on your gum disease stage. If you’re faced with periodontitis, you will most likely need regular maintenance cleanings, about four times a year, to help clean out signs of deep pockets and prevent bacteria growth. For early periodontal disease and plaque buildup, the number of cleanings and treatments you get will depend on your condition and how well your oral hygiene is maintained to see successful results.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene With St. Clair Dental PLLC
If you’re having trouble maintaining good oral hygiene, then our team at St. Clair Dental PLLC can help. Through our caring, compassionate team of dentists, we can help clean your teeth and protect your mouth from the effects of gum disease and give you excellent resources for treatment options. For more information, make sure to schedule an appointment with St. Clair Dental PLLC by calling us or scheduling an appointment online.