Emergency Dental Treatment
Emergency Dental Treatment |Gingivitis is one of those terms that most people have heard of, but few really understand what it is. Let’s take a look at this common dental condition:
what it is, its symptoms, and how to prevent it so that emergency dental treatment is not needed in the future.
What is gingivitis?
Gingivitis is early stage periodontal disease, or gum disease. The accumulation of plaque and tartar on teeth has an irritating effect on the gums. It causes them to become inflamed and infected. Over time, this inflammation and infection damages the gums and bone surrounding the teeth, causing them to loosen and fall out.
The later stage of gum disease is called periodontitis. Periodontal disease is irreversible when it reaches this point. The good news is that gingivitis is an earlier stage that can be reversed if the patient resumes practicing proper oral hygiene and undergoes certain dental emergency treatment at their dental office.
Gingivitis Symptoms:
- Gums that bleed frequently and easily
- Red and tender gums
- Persistent bad breath
Treating Gingivitis
If you’ve been diagnosed with gingivitis, now is the time to redouble your efforts at brushing and flossing at home. Your dentist can provide resources to help ensure that you are cleaning your teeth properly.
Another way to treat gingivitis is to have your teeth professionally cleaned at the dentist office. Many people diagnosed with gingivitis realize that they have been skipping these routine appointments, thinking that their cleaning efforts at home are enough.
One of the first big steps in treating gingivitis is having a professional cleaning performed by your dental hygienist. They can significantly remove more plaque accumulation than you can at home. They’re trained specifically in identifying the early signs of gingivitis so that you stay ahead of any problems.
So if you have been neglecting dental cleaning appointments, now is a great time to schedule your next one so that you get back on track and reverse gingivitis before it develops into an irreversible condition. This can avoid emergency dental treatment in the future.
What can I do on my own to help prevent gingivitis?
In addition to maintaining your regular dental exam and cleaning appointments, the best way to prevent gingivitis on your own is to regularly brush and floss your teeth to remove food particles and prevent the growth of bacteria that causes the plaque that leads to gingivitis.
A Few Tips:
- When away from home, and your toothbrush and dental floss, rinse your mouth with water following meals and snacks to remove food debris. Resume brushing and flossing normally when back at home.
- Avoid sugary sodas, particularly colas that combine sugars and acids. The acids can strip away tooth enamel, giving easier access to bacteria.
- Consider getting dental sealants to help prevent cavities and the overgrowth of bacteria that can lead to gingivitis.
For More Information
The best way to avoid gingivitis, and any type of emergency dental treatment involving tooth decay, is to regularly brush your teeth and to floss. Learn more by contacting our office at (781) 894-0347 today! New patients are welcome.