Although brushing your teeth twice daily helps remove harmful bacteria buildup to strengthen your enamel, it only gets rid of an estimated 50% to 60% of plaque. The American Dental Association recommends flossing afterward to clear away the remaining 40% to 50% and help prevent periodontal problems.
But if you’ve noticed that your gums look darker or puffier than usual, bleed when you floss, or feel sore and sensitive, you might already have developed gum disease. Continue reading to learn about 3 helpful questions to ask your oral healthcare provider before pursuing potential treatment options to address your condition!
Question #1: How Severe Is My Condition?
Did you know that there are different stages of gum disease? Unfortunately, the earliest form, gingivitis, doesn’t always exhibit noticeable symptoms. As a result, it often goes untreated and is able to progress into the more advanced form, periodontitis, which is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
Before deciding on a potential treatment plan, you must schedule an examination with your dentist or periodontist to determine the severity of your condition. They have the unique experience and technology needed to quickly identify any areas of concern and devise an appropriate strategy to halt the disease in its tracks.
Question #2: Is Gum Disease Curable?
Although gum disease can often be prevented by improving your twice-daily dental at-home hygiene routine, it can’t always be completely cured. The earliest stage, gingivitis, might be improved with more consistent flossing, which can keep it from reaching more progressive, and dangerous, stages.
However, once the disease reaches a certain point, it can be managed but not reversed. Your periodontist can offer services that help address symptoms, like receding gumlines, to avoid serious consequences, like potential tooth loss. Although options services can help safeguard your smile, they can’t always eradicate the bacteria causing gum disease.
Question #3: What is the Best Treatment for Me?
There are many potential treatments that can potentially slow the progress of gum disease to help protect your teeth and gums. For instance, many providers offer scaling and root planning, which is a 2-part procedure that consists of deep cleaning into the pockets of your gums then, during a second visit, smoothing the roots of your teeth to encourage the connective tissues to reattach.
But if you have more advanced gum disease, you might need to consider more complex procedures, like gum or bone grafts, laser surgery, or guided tissue regeneration. Your oral healthcare provider can discuss the different options with you so you understand what’s involved before implementing your treatment.
If you have other questions or concerns about your condition or potential procedures, you can learn more during your initial consultation!
About the Practice
At Dr. George Salem and Associates, PC, patients benefit from a multi-disciplinary oral healthcare team passionate about helping them build and maintain beautiful, healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Salem, an award-winning general dentist, collaborates with Dr. Khorashadi, an orthodontist, and Dr. Lann, a periodontal specialist, to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including gum disease therapies. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (781) 843-0660.