While cavities and dental fillings may seem like the biggest threat to your smile, you should also be concerned about gum disease. If left untreated, this infection and inflammation of the gums can cause bone deterioration and tooth loss. Preventing and treating this disease is critical to your dental health; below are some steps to take today. 

Healthy Mouths

Regular Care

Brushing and flossing are critical to your gums. To protect this soft tissue, brush with small circular motions instead of long strokes, and use a soft-bristled brush. You should also schedule a visit to the dentist every six months unless your dentist recommends otherwise.

Signs to Watch For

As you complete your daily dental care, keep an eye out for signs of an infection. In its early stages, gum disease manifests as swelling, redness, soreness, and easy bleeding. If left untreated, you may see pus coming from under the gums, suffer from persistent bad breath, or feel your teeth begin to loosen.

Treating Gum Disease

Deep Cleaning

If you spot any of the signs of gum disease, talk to your dentist about treatment. It is likely he’ll recommend a deep cleaning—also called scaling and root planing—to remove hardened plaque from the area on and below your gumline. This helps relieve the irritation that contributes to gum disease and gets rid of the bacteria behind the infection.

Gum Surgery

One of the effects of gum disease is that the gums recede from the teeth. As part of your treatment, you may need to correct this change in your tissue. Gum surgery is designed to help restore the tissue, fitting it tightly against your teeth and covering your roots once again.

Whether you’re in the late stages of gum disease or have healthy gums, prevention and treatment can protect your teeth from loss and decay. Start taking steps today to keep your oral health at its best.

Stephen R Ho, DDS, in Honolulu, HI, gives advanced dental care to patients from across Oahu. Using the latest dental technologies, Dr. Ho offers dental restorations, cosmetic procedures, gum disease treatment, and more. To make an appointment, call (808) 949-4288 or send a request online.