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Make February Your Month for Gum Disease Treatment in Longview

February 27, 2019

Filed under: Uncategorized — longviewdentalcenter @ 7:55 pm

February is the perfect time to see your dentist about gum disease treatment in Longview. Today’s dentists have more ways to treat gum disease than ever before, including anti-germ mouthwashes, scaling and root planing techniques, and dental implants for tooth replacement. There’s no need to suffer in silence when help is available.

What Makes Gum Disease So Serious

Did you know that your mouth is filled with millions of microscopic organisms? It’s true. Fortunately, most of these invisible lifeforms are harmless. However, there are certain types of bacteria that survive by causing tooth decay and gum disease. Not only can they ruin your dental health, they can also put you at risk for serious condition such as diabetes, heart disease, and dementia.

Preventing these unseen enemies from getting a foothold in your teeth is the reason why dentists spend so much time urging patients to brush, floss, and avoid sugar. But sometimes we don’t pay as much attention to our oral health as we should. When that happens, the gum disease process begins.

The Two Stages of Gum Disease

Gum disease typically occurs in two stages. These are:

  1. Gingivitis. At this point, the gums are tender and swollen and bleeding may occur during brushing. Treatment typically involves a standard dental cleaning and lifestyle coaching.
  2. Periodontal disease. At this point, the gums themselves have usually begun to shrink and the patient is in imminent danger of suffering tooth loss. Aggressive therapy is needed to reverse the symptoms.

What Your Dentist Can Do for Gum Disease

Your dentist will discuss your treatment options with you during your upcoming appointment. Possible approaches include:

  • Scaling and root planing. This procedure involves cleaning, or scaling, the teeth above the gum line. This is followed by planing, or smoothing, the roots to allow the gums to reattach themselves to the teeth.
  • Gum grafts. During the advanced stages of gum disease, the gums themselves may begin to contract. If this occurs, then you may require a gum graft, in which a dentist or oral surgeon rebuilds the gum line by replacing lost tissue.
  • Prescription antimicrobial mouthwash. Your dentist may use this as the primary form of treatment or as a supplement to scaling and root planing. Prescription mouthwashes contain strong anti-germ and anti-plaque additives that can help to reverse the effects of gum disease.
  • Tooth restoration. Sometimes gum disease progresses to the point where it causes tooth loss. Ways to treat this problem include dentures, crowns or bridges, and dental implants. Some patients may require reconstructive bone grafts as well.
  • Lifestyle coaching. After treating your gum disease, your dentist in Longview will recommend ways to keep it from coming back. Typical self-care steps include brushing 2-3 times a day, flossing once daily, eating a healthy diet low in sugars and simple starches, and avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs.

Gum disease is a serious illness that requires prompt attention. See your dentist right away if you suspect you’re suffering from this condition. You’ll soon be on your way to healthier teeth and gums and a happier life overall.

About the Author

Dr. George R Stoddard has been practicing dentistry for 25 years. He earned his DDS degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and completed additional training at LSU School of Dentistry. You can reach his office online or by calling (903) 753-9758.

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