What To Do If You Develop Gingivitis
Posted on: 7 June 2021
If you go to routine dental visits every six months, you might still develop periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a fancy term for gum disease, and gum disease develops in stages. Stage one is gingivitis. While you can still develop gum disease even if you attend regular visits, your dentist will detect it right away if you go routinely. If your dentist diagnoses you with gingivitis, they will explain what it is and what you can do about it. Here is some information you might want to know about gingivitis.
It Is the First Stage
Gum disease is something that begins mildly. It shows up with small signs of evidence that an infection is present in the gums. Over time, it progresses into other stages. When it begins, though, dentists call it gingivitis. One of the first signs of this disease is changes in the looks of the gums. The gums might look swollen or different in color. They might bleed easily, and they might even hurt. The gums will also begin receding during this stage. The recession, though, is mild compared to what it turns into if left untreated.
You Can Reverse It with the Right Steps
When a dentist notices these signs, they will suggest a few treatment options. Some might be home-based treatments, including using a prescription mouthwash. Your dentist might also prescribe toothpaste to use and might suggest flossing twice a day. In some cases, dentists also suggest a procedure called scaling and root planing. If you follow the dentist's instructions, it can remedy the problem and stop it from progressing.
It Will Worsen If Untreated
Gingivitis is quite common, and it is something you can treat. If you do not treat it, the disease will progressively worsen. Your gums will continue receding to the point where your teeth might come loose. Gum disease is an infection that eats the gums. It will get worse if you do nothing about it, which is why you should follow your dentist's recommendations if they diagnose you with this condition.
Why You Should Treat It Right Away
When your dentist tells you that you have gingivitis, you should follow their instructions for treating it. If you do not, it will worsen, and you will take many risks. One risk is losing some of your teeth. If you have questions about gum disease, talk to your dentist or visit a periodontist in your area.
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