Have you ever heard the term “gum disease” and wondered what it meant? Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a form of infection that affects the gum tissue of your teeth. It can occur when bacteria accumulate in the gums due to poor oral hygiene habits or an underlying medical condition. If left untreated, gum disease can cause serious damage to your teeth and gums. Fortunately, there are effective ways to treat and prevent gum disease. Let’s take a look at some important information about gum disease treatment in Tampa, FL.

Different Types of Gum Disease Treatment
There are two main types of gum diseases: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is usually the first stage of gum disease and results in redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums due to plaque buildup. This type of gum disease can be treated by brushing and flossing regularly, as well as visiting a dentist for a professional cleaning. Periodontitis is more severe than gingivitis and requires more aggressive treatment such as root planing or scaling. Root planing involves removing plaque from below the gum line while scaling removes any tartar that has built up on the teeth. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissue or tissue damaged by periodontal disease.

How to Prevent Gum Disease
The best way to prevent gum diseases is by practicing good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once per day. Additionally, you should schedule regular dental cleanings and exams with your dentist so they can examine your mouth for any signs of infection or decay. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables will also help keep your gums healthy because these foods contain essential vitamins and minerals that promote healthy teeth and gums. Finally, avoiding smoking or chewing tobacco products will reduce your risk of developing periodontal diseases because these substances aggravate existing conditions like gingivitis or can lead to new infections in your mouth.

Treating gum diseases is essential for maintaining good oral health since it can have serious consequences on both your teeth and overall wellness if left untreated for too long. If you think you might have gum disease, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at Optum Dental Arts for an evaluation and treatment plan. With periodontal cleanings and proper oral care at our Tampa dental office, you can help prevent or treat gum diseases before it becomes more serious. Taking care of yourself now will pay off later!