Curing Gum Disease

According to several sources gum disease affects over 47% of fellow Americans over the age of 30. Which means that figure could include you. This happens because gum disease is usually painless so we don’t know how it might be progressing, sometimes not until it’s too late. Let’s first identify what the disease is and how you can tell if you might have some level of it, then we can address how to cure it.

What is Gum Disease?

Even though there are rare occasions that you have inherited issues resulting in the disease, or possibly issues from medications, the primary culprit behind gum disease is our own lack of good oral hygiene. Gum disease is caused by the sticky plaque that will build up on your teeth. After time this plaque will find its way down to your gum line and even below your gums. The plaque carries bacteria. The first level of the disease is called gingivitis. This is when the soft tissue becomes infected and inflamed. This level is easily treated and reversed. The next level is called periodontitis. This is when the plaque turns into tartar, a mineralized substance, and the gums start to turn a deeper red and pull away from your teeth. Now you are in for some serious issues that need to be corrected.

What are some Signs?

If and when you do brush and your toothbrush has a pink tinge to it that would be your first indicator that your gums are beginning to bleed. A second sign is to look in the mirror to see if the gums are swollen or are turning a deeper red. When you family or friends comment on your bad breath take that as a potential sign. If you have a bad taste in your mouth that is an indicator. Now if your gums are receding away from your teeth leaving a gap the disease is progressing. A loose tooth is bad news, or if your bite pattern seems to be off somewhat. You need to see your dentist immediately

The Cure for Gum Disease

Seeing your dentist as soon as possible is the cure. The dentist will evaluate the progression of the disease and start by giving you a solid, professional teeth cleaning. Removing the plaque will remove the bacteria and the gums will start to return to normal. Depending on the advancement of the disease this could include cleaning the teeth, and the roots, below the gum line. Antibiotics might be prescribed now as well to combat the infection. There are no home remedies to cure the disease. The only thing you can do at home is to practice the suggested oral hygiene good habits. The health industry wants you to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. This means not quickly but to do a good job. By removing the sticky plaque every day you can avoid every encountering gum disease. Slow down, don’t do everything in a hurry. Also, see your dentist twice a year for regular exams. Take care of your smile!

More Information on Gum Disease : What are Symptoms of Gum Disease?