While bi-annual dental cleanings are sufficient for most patients with good oral health, there are some circumstances where our dentists might recommend additional visits for professional teeth cleanings, and that's for patients managing gum disease.
Here's what you should know about gum disease treatment in Elk Grove and why protecting your oral health is so important.
The Oral Systemic Connection
Did you know that gum disease is actually closely related to your overall well-being? It's true!
Gum disease is an infection of the supporting system for your teeth, which includes your jawbone and surrounding soft tissues. The bacteria that cause this infection can enter your bloodstream, travel to other areas of your body, and contribute to other health concerns, such as:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Dementia
- Pregnancy complications, such as low birth weights and pregnancy diabetes
The inflammation that causes these concerns can also contribute to gum disease, meaning that protecting your oral health also means protecting your overall well-being.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease is typically a slow-moving condition that can be difficult to identify on your own. If you recognize the signs, you can take proactive steps to seek the treatment you need to effectively manage your condition. Here's what you should know.
The Signs of Gingivitis
Early gum disease is called gingivitis. Your dentist screens you for gingivitis at each dental exam and teeth cleaning. Gingivitis typically doesn't have much pain associated with it; however, some of the signs to look for are:
- Bleeding during brushing and flossing
- Red, swollen, or irritated gum tissue
- Chronic bad breath that doesn't go away with brushing or mouth rinse
Identifying Periodontitis
Periodontitis is also known as advanced gum disease. Some of the signs of this stage are:
- Pain or tenderness when eating
- Tooth mobility
- Gum recession
- Bad taste in your mouth
- Pus around gum tissue
If you notice any of the signs and symptoms of gum disease, contact your Elk Grove dentist at (916) 478-7200 to schedule a professional teeth cleaning and exam. It's never too late to get back on the path to wellness!