Would you be surprised to learn that most people in this country have some form of gum disease? What’s more, nearly half (47%) of people over 30 have periodontitis, an advanced stage of gum disease. With this problem being so pervasive, it is important to know its symptoms and treatment options.
One of the reasons gum disease is so common is that its early symptoms are quite mild. In fact, they tend not to cause pain, so many people assume that nothing is really wrong. But you shouldn’t ignore symptoms if you notice them in your mouth. They include redness, swelling, and easy bleeding while brushing, and can progress to include receding gums, chronic bad breath, and even loose teeth.
The best way to treat gum disease is to prevent it with effective oral hygiene. This means brushing twice a day for at least two minutes every time. You should also floss daily, since the plaque that causes gum disease easily accumulates between the teeth. You can also use an antimicrobial mouth rinse.
If gum disease becomes more established, it will require professional treatment to stop. At Central Oregon Dental Center, we offer antibiotic medication, as well as deep-cleaning procedures designed to stop the progress of the disease. Early treatment is always best, since gum disease is not always reversible.
If you would like to learn more about the gum disease treatment options provided by Dr. Michael Hall and his team, please call our dental office in Bend, OR, today.
