Periodontal disease is a condition that impacts the health of your gums due to the buildup of plaque and bacteria. If allowed to progress, it can threaten your oral health and eventually lead to tooth loss. Thankfully, intervening with treatment early allows you to reverse or halt its progression. This article explores how it is done.
About Periodontal Disease
There are different stages of periodontal disease. The earlier you take action, the greater chance you have of being able to reverse the damage.
In its earliest form, gingivitis, the gums are often red, swollen, and bleed when brushing or flossing. Here is where it can be totally reversed with the help of good oral hygiene and professional care.
Once the disease progresses to periodontitis or advanced periodontitis, steps can be taken to improve oral health and halt its progression. While you may not be able to fully reverse it at this stage, you can keep the disease from getting worse.
How to Reverse Periodontal Disease
So, how is periodontal disease treated? How can you reverse it? There are a few steps you can take to improve your oral health.
Give Your Oral Hygiene Routine a Boost
To reduce the risk of bacterial infections that cause and feed periodontal disease, you have to properly care for your teeth and gums. It’s no surprise that one of the best things you can do to help reverse early-stage periodontal disease is to begin practicing good habits when caring for your oral health.
- Brush thoroughly twice a day using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. This will help to remove plaque and bacteria before they build up.
- Floss every day to reach the areas your toothbrush can’t.
- Swish and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to remove anything harmful left behind.
Have Routine Cleanings
Visiting your dentist regularly is so important for reversing periodontal disease. It doesn’t matter how well you care for your teeth, professional cleanings just take it to the next level. They can uncover areas where your brushing and flossing have missed, giving you a greater chance of being free and clear of plaque and tartar buildup.
You should have one of these cleanings at least every six months. However, if you are battling periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend you visit more frequently.
Undergo Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are highly effective procedures for those with more advanced periodontal disease. This treatment gives your gums a deep cleaning by removing plaque and tartar below the gumline where it usually forms pockets.
Scaling removes all of this buildup while the root planing smooths out the roots and allows the gums to fit smoothly against the tooth once again.
Engage in Healthy Habits
Developing some healthy habits can have a positive impact on your oral health. For instance, eating a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients can support your immune system and strengthen your teeth. Limiting sugary foods can reduce your risk of plaque buildup.
And, of course, if you are a smoker or use tobacco in any form, stop. Not only does it weaken your immune system, but it can also make it harder for your gums to heal.
Reverse Your Periodontal Disease at Periodontal Associates
If you are interested in improving your oral health and reducing the impacts of periodontal disease, the professionals at Periodontal Associates can help.
Contact us today to book an appointment at one of our two convenient locations: Framingham 508-875-6185 or Newton 617-964-6185.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is caused by plaque buildup that leads to gum infections. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, underlying health conditions, and genetics can all be contributing factors.
Does scaling and root planing hurt?
Local anesthetic is typically used for the procedure so that you do not feel anything, but once it wears off, you may have some mild discomfort and soreness. Over-the-counter pain relievers work great at providing relief.