A family dentist spends most of their time dealing with gum disease and tooth decay. Gum disease is an infection that is caused by bacteria and plaque getting beneath the gums. In response to the bacterial invasion, the immune system dispatches antibodies to eliminate the bacteria. A battle ensues and the result is swelling, inflammation, and damage to the structures that keep teeth in place.
The first stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis and it is usually caused by poor oral hygiene. Improving oral hygiene often leads to the condition being reversed and gums returning to normal. When gingivitis is left untreated, it morphs into a more advanced type of gum disease known as periodontitis. This is a serious dental issue that can lead to teeth falling out. To make things worse, periodontitis has been liked to serious health conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
Treatments commonly used to treat gum disease include:
Getting treatment for gum disease does not mean the patient no longer has to worry about it. It is possible for their gums to be re-infected due to poor oral hygiene or other issues. Regular visits to a family dentist can increase the odds of any reoccurring issue being detected in its early stages.
The dentist will examine the patient for signs of gum disease during their routine checkup and they can perform teeth cleaning, which helps to prevent plaque and tartar buildup on teeth surfaces and underneath the gums. Two visits a year to a dentist is often enough, but those who have had treatment for severe cases of periodontitis might have to see a dentist more often.
Contact our Brevard clinic today to find out more about how our family dentist can help you to keep gum disease away.
Request an appointment here: https://www.carolinasmilesdentist.com or call Carolina Smiles Family Dental at (828) 974-3326 for an appointment in our Brevard office.
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