No one wants to lose their teeth. Unfortunately, thousands of people are losing teeth to gum disease every day. This is especially disheartening because gum disease is preventable in most instances and completely treatable in others with general dentistry.

Treatment for gum disease, also known as gingivitis, depends on the severity of the case. In its mildest forms, a thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums and continued excellent oral hygiene will stop gum disease in its tracks. Sometimes a special toothpaste and/or mouthwash are prescribed to help keep plaque from building up on the teeth.

When gum disease is severe, more extensive measures must be taken to get it under control. If the gums are very infected, an antibiotic may be prescribed to get the infection under control. Tartar must be removed from the teeth and the roots made smooth again so the gums can reattach.

Gum disease begins when a clear, sticky substance called plaque begins to build up on the teeth near the gum line and in difficult-to-clean areas. As the plaque builds up, over time it hardens into tartar, also known as calculus. This hard, yellow-brown substance begins to push the gums away as it collects on the teeth. The gums become red or bright pink and puffy. They may also begin to bleed at times.

If this situation is neglected, the gums begin to recede. The infection will begin to eat away at the bone surrounding the teeth, causing the teeth to become loose in their sockets. Soon they will begin to fall out.

Prevention of gum disease is by far the best-case scenario. Regular dental checkups and getting your teeth cleaned professionally by the dental hygienist will help considerably in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. However, there are circumstances other than poor oral hygiene that can also lead to gum disease.

Genetics play a role. Some people are more predisposed to developing gum disease. For these people, regularly scheduled visits to the dentist for checkups and cleanings are highly advised. Certain medications can also cause gum disease to develop more easily. Fluctuations in hormones, particularly in girls and women, can make some more vulnerable to gum disease.

Having an annual dental exam and professional cleaning will help keep gum disease from being a problem you encounter. Contact Southern Dental Group of Munford for your dental exam. If you have red, swollen or puffy gums, please give us a call so we can help get you back on the road to oral health.