Over half of all adults in North America suffer from some type of gum disease. Like any other part of your body, your gums are susceptible to becoming infected. Gum disease can be painful and can make it difficult to talk, eat or drink. If left unchecked for too long, gum disease can develop into periodontal disease. Periodontal disease causes your gum tissue to break down, which can result in pockets in your gums that hold bacteria. This leads to a host of other problems with not only your oral health but can spread to other parts of your body as well.
Signs of Gum Infection
- Gums that are swollen, sensitive or bleeding
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
- Pus coming from gums
If you are suffering from any of the above symptoms, you should schedule an appointment at Brookside Family Dental in Leamington today. It is vital that you have the severity of your gum disease examined in order to determine the best course of action going forward.
Common Gum Infection Treatments
- Saltwater Rinse: This is a quick treatment that helps eliminate bacteria and helps soothe inflamed gums. This is useful if you are only in the beginning stages of gum disease.
- Oil Pulling: Oil, such as coconut oil, has antimicrobial properties that can help treat inflamed gums and reduce plaque.
- Antibiotics: Your dentist may have you go on prescription antibiotics, or if the infection is too severe, your dentist may opt to inject antibiotics into the affected area.
- Root Planning: Your dentist will use this procedure to perform a deep cleaning between your gums and teeth.
- Gingivectomy: This treatment involves the removal of the infected gum tissue in order to prevent the spread of infection throughout your mouth.
- Oral Surgery: Once the infection is passed a certain point of severity, your dentist may resort to oral surgery like a bone graft or tissue graft.
How To Prevent Gum Infections
Good dental habits are the foundation of your oral health. Making your oral hygiene a priority every day will significantly reduce your risk of gum disease, tooth decay and other oral health problems. Make sure you create a routine and stick to it.
- Brushing twice a day: you can opt to use a fluoridated toothpaste for extra protection.
- Flossing your teeth daily: flossing removes food particles from in between your teeth that can collect bacteria and cause tooth decay and plaque build-up.
- Use an anti-gingivitis mouthwash: this helps to kill any bacteria you may have missed while brushing, and helps to protect your gums against gingivitis.
- Visit a dental professional at least twice a year: be sure to see a dentist every six months for a check-up and a professional cleaning, or follow your dentist’s recommendations.
Contact Brookside Family Dental today for all your dental care needs. We proudly serve the Leamington area and can help you prevent gum disease. We are happy to address any other oral health concerns that you may have as well. Call us to book an appointment today!
