Healthy Gums

While good oral hygiene at home will go a long way in maintaining healthy gums, it is not and can never be enough. This is because there are factors that will largely weaken gum health like poor feeding habits and smoking. Others causes of poor gum health include some medications and lack of proper brushing techniques which leads to a build up of plaque.

We offer preventive dentistry where clients are provided with regular screenings and check-ups to treat and curb any gum problems. Treatment options include professional cleaning of the teeth, scaling and polishing. These ones are used to remove plaque and tartar build up from difficult-to-reach-areas. These treatments will also prevent the build up and breeding of bacteria around gum pockets and other areas. When tooth surfaces are clean and smooth, it becomes very difficult for plaque to attach itself and this reduces the risk of gum disease and gum decay considerably.

One of the many benefits of dental check ups is that it identifies early cases of gum diseases and this enables early intervention. Some of the many gum infections that can be identified early include gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis can be described as an inflammation of the gums that is accompanied by swelling and redness. In most cases, bleeding will also occur especially when taking meals and brushing. Gingivitis and periodontitis are serious types of gum disease. The following are other signs of gum disease:

• Gum recession
• Terrible breath
• Abscesses

Periodontal Disease

One consequences of untreated gingivitis is infection of the gums that surround the teeth and the periodontal ligament that links the teeth to the jaw bone. The more the condition is left untreated the more the tissue continues to break down and the root canals become infected leading to loose teeth.

Gum Problems – Treatment Options

The importance of regular professional cleaning and dental visits for healthy gums cannot be overemphasized because what you cannot spot can easily get spotted by your dentist. When an infection is present, antibiotics are prescribed and in some cases, root canal treatment may be necessary to get rid of the infection from the pulp and roots. Crowns, Inlays and other tooth restoration options may be used to strengthen the tooth and in the worst cases, a tooth extraction may be necessary. Dental implants, bridges and dentures are all teeth replacement options.