Most people are surprised to know that chronic bad breath is a symptom of gum disease. While this can seem very troublesome and embarrassing for patients, the good news is that there is treatment available to eliminate the bad breath and restore oral health.
Gum disease is the inflammation and infection of the soft tissue in the mouth. It is most often caused by ineffective oral hygiene practices. When bacteria are not properly eliminated from the mouth, an excess of plaque will build up along the gum line. This can cause bad breath, inflammation, and infection. When caught early, the effects of gum disease are reversible. However, if gum disease advances it can lead to a loss of bone and eventually the loss of natural teeth.
Treatment of gingivitis involves both professional and at-home care. The first priority is always to prevent progression of the condition. This is done through a professional deep cleaning. During this cleaning, the dental team is able to remove excess plaque and tartar and thoroughly clean around the gum line and in some cases, all the way down to the tooth root. This procedure is commonly called scaling and root planing. If the condition has resulted in an infection, antibiotics may be necessary.
In order to receive prompt treatment, it is important to know the signs and symptoms of gingivitis. They include:
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to make an appointment with your dentist immediately for an evaluation. Signs that the gum disease may have advanced past gingivitis include:
Advanced gum disease can require serious treatment, including soft tissue or bone grafts along with restorative services to replace any teeth lost to the condition.
The best way to prevent bad breath and gum disease is to practice proper oral hygiene. Patients are encouraged to brush at least twice each day and floss every evening to help eliminate food particles from the mouth. Antibacterial mouthwash can also be used. In addition, it is important to maintain regularly scheduled visits with your dentist. During these appointments, your teeth will receive a professional cleaning and the dentist will have the opportunity to identify potential problem areas before the condition advances.
If you are in the Garland area and you are experiencing signs of gum disease, call Kings Dental today.
When faced with a tooth infection, the prospect of root canal therapy may seem daunting.…
In the bustling landscape of dental practices, finding a dental home "near me" that caters…
For seniors, losing teeth is a natural occurrence that comes with aging. While tooth loss…
When you come to Kings Dental in Garland, Texas, with a missing or severely decayed/damaged…
Living with mouth gaps can be challenging. Your self-confidence dampens, and eating becomes a painful…
Although tooth decay is preventable, it remains a major dental problem today. More people are…