24 Jan Can Gum Disease Be Cured?
When it comes to gum disease, there is the good, the bad, and the ugly. The good news is that in most cases, gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is completely preventable. Regular dental cleaning and daily brushing and flossing can help to prevent gum disease from ever becoming a problem. Gum disease develops due to a bacterial infection in your mouth. At Prescott Dentistry, we take a holistic approach to combating bacteria in your mouth, which helps prevent gum disease from developing in the first place. Ask one of our clinical staff how you can take advantage of these natural alternatives to optimize your family’s dental health.
Can gum disease be cured?
What if I do develop gum disease? Can it be cured? Certain risk factors can make a person more prone to develop gum disease, or periodontal disease. Is periodontal disease curable? The answer depends on how advanced the disease is. The first stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. Having gingivitis is serious, but at this stage, it can be reversed with proper dental care. What does gingivitis look like? Normal gums are light pink and firm. According to the Mayo Clinic, these are some signs to look out for:
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Dusky red or dark red gums
- Gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss
- Bad breath
- Receding gums
- Tender gums
If you notice any of these signs, get in touch with us immediately, before the problem progresses.
Can periodontitis be cured?
If left untreated, gingivitis can then turn into periodontitis. If gingivitis can be reversed, can periodontitis be cured? The ugly truth about periodontitis is that it cannot be cured, which is why it is best to use preventative measures and address the problem early. Periodontitis can eventually lead to tooth loss and other serious problems. The Mayo Clinic lists these signs of periodontitis:
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Bright red, dusky red or purplish gums
- Gums that feel tender when touched
- Gums that bleed easily
- Pink-tinged toothbrush after brushing
- Spitting out blood when brushing or flossing your teeth
- Bad breath
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Loose teeth or loss of teeth
- Painful chewing
- New spaces developing between your teeth
- Gums that pull away from your teeth (recede)
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
Holistic Dentist in Prescott
At Prescott Dentistry, we have a great deal of experience and expertise when it comes to treating these issues. Do you have signs of gum disease or periodontal disease? Call us today to schedule an evaluation and see how together we can partner to avoid surgical intervention and keep your teeth for life!
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