Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease, and it is a serious oral health issue that impacts millions of Americans. It can lead to bad breath, bleeding gums, tooth loss, and even be detrimental to overall health if left untreated. The good news is that gum disease is largely preventable with good oral hygiene habits and regular dental visits. At Ideal Dentistry, your trusted Sacramento family dentist, we prioritize your gum health every step of the way and are here to help you keep your smile healthy for a lifetime.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. If plaque is not removed well through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which often leads to inflammation and infection of the gums. Factors that increase the risk of gum disease include smoking, poor oral hygiene, diabetes, hormonal changes, and even genetics.
Tips to Prevent Gum Disease
- Brush Twice a Day with the Best Toothbrush Recommended by Dentists
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush can help remove plaque effectively without damaging the gums. The best toothbrush recommended by dentists often includes features like soft bristles and oscillating heads that can reach deeper into gum lines and between teeth.
- Floss Daily
Brushing alone isn’t enough to remove plaque and food particles between teeth, so daily flossing really is essential to keeping gums healthy and preventing gum disease.
- Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash
Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help reduce plaque and bacteria in those hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. This provides extra protection against gum disease.
- Eat a Balanced Diet
A diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and calcium, can also help strengthen gum tissue and reduce the risk of infection. Try to avoid excessive sugar intake, which contributes to plaque buildup (and isn’t good for your overall health).
- Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water can help wash away food particles and bacteria, reducing the chances of plaque buildup and gum inflammation.
- Quit Smoking
Smoking weakens the immune system and makes it harder for your gums to heal from infections which increases the risk of gum disease.
- Schedule Semi-Annual Dental Visits
Regular dental checkups and cleanings at Ideal Dentistry are critical for preventing gum disease. A professional cleaning will remove tartar and plaque that regular brushing and flossing simply can’t reach. During your visit, our skilled DDS in Sacramento will check for early signs of gum disease and recommend personalized care strategies.
How to Treat Gum Disease
If you’re already experiencing symptoms of gum disease, it’s important to seek professional treatment as soon as possible. Some effective treatments that are commonly used include:
- Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing): This non-surgical procedure removes tartar from above and below the gum line and smooths the tooth roots to help gums reattach.
- Medications: Antibiotic mouthwashes, gels, or oral medications may be prescribed to reduce infection and inflammation.
- Surgical Treatments: In severe cases, gum grafting, flap surgery, or bone grafting might be a necessary step in restoring gum health.
- Root Canal Sacramento Therapy: If gum disease has led to severe tooth infection, a root canal in Sacramento may be needed to save the tooth and prevent further damage.
Visit Ideal Dentistry, Your Sacramento Family Dentist for Optimum Gum Health
Preventing gum disease is a lifelong commitment, but with the right oral health habits and regular visits to Ideal Dentistry, you can keep your gums and teeth in excellent shape. If you're looking for a Sacramento family dentist who prioritizes your oral health, schedule an appointment with us today. Whether you need a routine checkup, gum disease treatment, or a root canal in Sacramento, our DDS in Sacramento is here to provide the very best care to you and your entire family.
Don’t wait until symptoms appear! Call (916) 585-4597 today to book your appointment with Ideal Dentistry, and protect your smile for years to come!