Poor oral hygiene and other risk factors may put you at risk of periodontitis. If you have gum disease, it is important to stay on top of your treatment plan so that the problem does not worsen. Family First Dental in Overland Park, KS, offers scaling and root planing services that help you manage periodontal disease. In today’s blog, we will be exploring what these treatments entail and why they help maintain your symptoms.
Read more: Helping You Manage Gum DiseaseSymptoms That You Have Gingivitis
The first stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis. During this phase, you may notice that your oral tissue is swollen or more red. You may also bleed when you try to floss. In some cases, bleeding while you floss may not mean that you have gingivitis. It could just be a sign that you need to floss more often. However, if it causes you discomfort, it may be due to gingivitis. If caught and treated in this stage, periodontal disease can be reversed. However, if left ignored, this initial phase can progress into more advanced stages. As the condition worsens, you may notice that you have persistently bad-smelling breath, loose-feeling teeth, and swollen gums.
What To Do If You Have Periodontal Disease
Twice a year, you should be going to your dentist for a cleaning and examination. During this time, they will examine your oral cavity and check for common problems, such as gum disease. If you have signs of this problem, the dentist may put you on a treatment plan that includes deep cleanings. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may need several of these each year to maintain your symptoms.
Periodontal cleanings are more extensive than the ones done during your checkup. They include scaling and root planing, which help remove plaque buildup from below your tissue line. The tissue will also be smoothed to help them reattach to the root of your tooth. If you do not undergo treatment, you may be at risk of losing your teeth and many other health concerns may follow.
Prevention Is Key
Periodontal disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. However, it can be prevented in many cases. Some risk factors can increase your likelihood of developing this problem. These may include smoking tobacco, stress, autoimmune disease, and of course, poor oral hygiene. To reduce your chances of developing gingivitis, make sure to take proper steps to care for your oral health. Brush and floss twice a day, see your dentist twice a year and try to cut out or reduce bad lifestyle and diet choices.
Schedule A Deep Cleaning Today
Call Family First Dental in Overland Park, KS, today at 913-381-2600 to schedule a periodontal service.