Gum disease is very common. It’s also is the leading cause of tooth loss. When gum tissue becomes inflamed, it’s no longer capable of supporting otherwise healthy teeth. If a patient is diagnosed with gingivitis, Dentists in St Peter MN will start a treatment plan to prevent it from turning into full-blown gum disease.
Understanding Gingivitis
Gingivitis is an early form of gum disease. When tissue damage is caught at this stage, it’s still considered reversible. Dentists in St Peter MN usually put patients on an aggressive treatment plan to reverse and cure the situation.
If gingivitis is left untreated, it will more than likely advance into periodontal disease, commonly referred to as gum disease. During an annual checkup, dentists look for sings of gingivitis. However, patients need to call their dentist if they notice sore, swollen gums, bleeding when brushing, or bad breath.
Clinical Treatment
The inflammation of gingivitis is caused by a buildup of bacteria around the gum line. Excessive tartar buildup may also lead to gum irritation. The first step for treating gingivitis is professional cleaning. Using special tools, the dentist will scrape away tartar and clean between periodontal pockets.
Once the bacteria have been removed, the dentist may followup with an antiseptic mouthwash. Some patients may even be sent home with a prescription mouthwash to help maintain the results. It’s vital for patients with gingivitis to see their dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning.
Home Care
Those diagnosed with gingivitis must follow a strict oral hygiene regimen at home. Be sure to brush at least twice a day. Brushing removes plaque before it can harden into tarter. It only takes 48 hours for plaque to harden, so brushing is crucial.
Flossing is also a must. Patients need to floss a minimum of once a day. Bleeding is common at first, but it should stop as the gum tissue becomes stronger and healthier. Flossing is the only way to remove bacteria and plaque from below the gum line.
Being diagnosed with gingivitis is often the first warning a person gets that they’re at risk of developing periodontal disease. Be sure to follow all recommendations made by the dentist to reverse this early form of gum disease. Contact us if you are concerned about the health of your gums.
