Beaufort, Bluffton, and Hilton Head SC
Gum disease is prevalent in almost half of the adults in the U.S. It is the number one cause of tooth loss among adults, yet it is a preventable and manageable dental disease. However, gum disease requires ongoing treatment paired with consistent at-home oral hygiene to prevent it from worsening. Dr. Chris Mohler, a dentist in Beaufort that offers periodontal management, provides ways to help patients maintain their oral health and prevent gum disease.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease or periodontal disease is a chronic infection of the gums. It stems from oral bacteria not being effectively removed by daily brushing and flossing, as well as irregular dental checkups and cleanings. However, specific medical conditions, medication side effects, or hormonal imbalances may cause gum disease in certain cases. As a result, bacteria infect the gum tissue, causing it to appear red, inflamed, and bleed easily, a stage known as gingivitis. Initially, gingivitis can be reversed with good oral hygiene. However, the condition progresses to gum disease if left untreated.
As bacteria infiltrate the gum tissue, pockets form, causing the gums to recede or pull aware from the base of the teeth. Eventually, the bacteria reach the jawbone and enter the bloodstream and could impact overall health. Gum disease may cause bad breath, sensitive teeth, and loose teeth or may result in total tooth loss in severe cases.
How can I stop gum disease?
Professional dental treatments are necessary to combat gum disease. Repetitive deep dental cleanings help minimize the risks of gum disease and prevent it from worsening. During a deep dental cleaning or scaling and root planing, the hygienist thoroughly cleans below the gum line to remove bacteria and tartar buildup and smooths the exposed tooth roots to make it harder for new tartar to form. In most cases, the patient’s mouth is numb to ensure comfort during their deep dental cleaning. When a local anesthetic is needed, usually only one quadrant or half of the mouth is treated at a time. Periodontal management will be recommended based on your individual need, while many patients with gum disease benefit from deep dental cleanings once every three to four months. If you suspect that you have gum disease, we encourage you to meet with Dr. Mohler. He will recommend the best course of action for your oral health needs.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
Daily brushing and flossing, as well as adhering to your twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings, are the best way to maintain healthy teeth and gums and reduce your risk of gum disease.
However, there are other lifestyle choices you can make to lessen your risk even more:
- Avoid smoking
- Limit consumption of alcohol
- Eat a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables
- If you have diabetes, maintain healthy blood glucose levels
- Wear a nightguard if you clench and grind your teeth
- Practice stress-reducing techniques
Periodontal Management in Beaufort, Bluffton, and Hilton Head
Many adults with gum disease are unaware that they have it. If you experience sensitive, inflamed, red gums that bleed easily, you should consider a consultation with Dr. Mohler because you could have gum disease that could benefit from periodontal treatment. To learn more about gum disease or its treatments, please contact Chris Mohler, DDS, by calling (843) 522-1442 or complete our Contact Form.