Do your gums suddenly look red and puffy? Are they a little tender or bleed when you brush and floss? If you said "yes," then it most certainly sounds like you are dealing with gum disease, a condition that requires immediate medical care. Fortunately, here at our Flint, MI, dental office, Dr. Linda Park can help determine the best way to treat this problem.
Preventing Gum Disease
One of the reasons for the development of gum disease is poor hygiene. If you don’t brush thoroughly or if you don’t spend time flossing every day, then your oral hygiene isn’t as good as you might think, and this can leave you prone to gum disease and decay. By flossing daily, brushing twice a day, and regularly visiting your Flint, MI, general dentist every six months for checkups, you can greatly reduce your risk for developing gum disease.
When Gum Disease Strikes
Of course, if gum disease happens to you, it’s important that you get the treatment you need to prevent it from getting worse. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of disease, and at this point, you can actually reverse the condition. This is why you should never underestimate the importance of those biannual dental checkups. After all, our dentist can detect even the smallest changes in your gums to pinpoint gum disease and treat it effectively before it even has a chance to wreak havoc.
After all, once gingivitis turns into periodontal disease, the main course of acting is a procedure known as scaling and root planing, in which our Flint, MI, family dentist uses special tools along and under the gum line to remove plaque and tartar buildup. This deep cleaning also removes plaque and tartar from the roots of the teeth, as well as smooths down the surface of the roots to make them a less hospitable environment for bacteria to grow.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
If you suddenly notice bleeding gums every time that you brush and floss, this is one of the most common signs of gum inflammation. If you just started flossing, then bleeding may occur, but this shouldn’t occur for more than a couple of days. If you notice bleeding gums for days on end or your gums start to bleed on their own, then it’s time to schedule an appointment with your dentist.
You could also be dealing with gum disease if you experience,
- Red, inflamed gums
- Gums that are tender to the touch
- Receding or shrinking gums
- Pus along the gum line and between the teeth
- Bad breath
- Changes in your bite
- Changes in the way your dentures fit
Concerned? Give Us a Call
Don’t ignore changes in the health or appearance of your gums. Instead, call Park Dental Wellness in Flint, MI, at (810) 742-5140 to schedule an immediate appointment. Remember—catching gum disease early is crucial!