Important Insights on the Prevention and Treatment of Gum Disease

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When an inconsistent or inadequate daily oral hygiene routine fails to remove plaque and residual food particles from your teeth, they can form into hardened tartar. This is a bacteria-rich substance. Its presence at the gumline can greatly increase your chances of developing gum disease.

Gum disease in Geneva, Illinois, has different degrees of severity. The earliest form of gum disease is known as gingivitis. Early symptoms include gums that bleed easily when brushing and flossing and issues with chronic bad breath. In many cases, the gums might also look red or inflamed.

In many cases, gingivitis can be resolved through improvements in your oral hygiene routine and by attending your twice-annual dental checkup and cleaning with your dentist, Dr. Kamy Noruzi.

If left unchecked, gingivitis can progress into the most serious form of gum disease known as periodontitis. When this happens, the inflammation in the gum tissues starts to make the gums recede from the base of your teeth. Eventually, pockets of infection start to form near the roots of your teeth.

Without treatment, periodontitis can even result in the loss of bone structure in the part of your jaw that anchors your teeth. In some cases, advanced periodontitis requires surgical intervention or prescription antibiotics to effectively treat and resolve the problem.

The American Dental Association recommends that you brush your teeth twice each day and floss between your teeth and along the gumline. An effective and consistent daily oral hygiene routine is the best preventative measure against gum disease.

If you have questions or concerns about gum disease, you should call Fox River Periodontics, PC at 630-232-7400 to understand your prevention or treatment options.