How To Treat Gum Disease
Professional Deep Cleaning
Most people are familiar with professional dental cleanings that are often completed at the same time as a standard six-monthly checkup.
At Alabama Periodontics, one of our professionally trained dental hygienists specializing in periodontics scales or scrapes away hardened bacteria, which is a substance called tartar or calculus. This can build up around the gum line, and the bacteria in the calculus produce toxins that inflame the gums.
The removal of calculus helps remove the infection causing bacteria. Smoothing the teeth or polishing the surfaces makes it much harder for bacteria to adhere.
Untreated gingivitis can get into your surrounding bone and tissue. Due to the severity of the infection, gingivitis is a condition that needs to be treated. It can spread from your gums to other parts of your body.
Early Detection
Helps Prevent Teeth Loss
Catching Gingivitis in its early stages is always best to prevent the disease from becoming more severe.
Following preventative steps by following good hygiene practices at home, you may never have to experience periodontal disease.
Dr. Maddux provides a comprehensive periodontal exam that includes meticulous examination of your:
- Teeth
- Plaque level
- Gums
- Bone structure
- Bite
At Home
Oral Habits
A professional dental cleaning by Dr. Maddux will help treat symptoms of early gum disease, or gingivitis, but you need to take steps at home to aid in preventing the disease.
Gum disease is often caused by a failure to brush and floss properly or frequently enough, and it is important to make changes if you want to see significant improvements in gum health.
- We can work with you to help improve brushing and flossing techniques, and can provide advice on the best tools to use, including toothbrushes and dental floss.
- We can also talk to you about alternative ways to floss, for example if you have limited manual dexterity.
Mouth rinse can be a useful addition to your daily routine, but make sure to pick one that is antimicrobial and which will help fight gingivitis.
