According to CDC data, 47.2% of Americans over 30 suffer from periodontal disease. Unfortunately, the condition increases as people age, as 70.1% of Americans over 65 suffer from the disease.
Gum disease starts as bacteria in the mouth infect the gum tissue, and as it progresses, this bacteria known as plaque hardens and turns to tartar. This tartar forms under the gum line and causes receding gums, tooth, and bone loss.
Have you been diagnosed with periodontal disease? You can cure it. Read on to learn all about how to reverse gum disease.
Improve Oral Hygiene
One of the leading causes of periodontitis is poor oral hygiene. Improper or infrequent brushing and flossing are a significant cause of this disease, and improving your home habits is the first step to reversing periodontitis.
Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes. It would help if you also floss at least once a day but twice is better.
As your gums recede, you may have more significant gaps between your teeth and gumline. Food particles get caught in those gaps and turn to bacteria. Flossing clears those particles and helps keep your gums healthy.
Try flossing at least twice a day when you brush your teeth, and keep some floss handy for after meals.
Go to the Dentist
Preventative care with regular checkups and teeth cleanings is a vital step if you want to reverse periodontitis. Unfortunately, too many Americans don’t have access to preventive care. A recent estimate reveals that almost 100 million Americans lack dental insurance.
While dental insurance may be a financial burden, you can’t rebuild your gums from home. Explore any affordable dental insurance options on your state’s Health Insurance Marketplace. If you find a plan that suits your budget, make sure you schedule a checkup or cleaning at least once a year.
Most dentists recommend a cleaning every six months, and in the case of periodontitis, every three months.
Scaling and Planing
In the case of advanced gum disease, you will need a scaling and planing procedure.
These procedures are like routine cleanings but more in-depth. As plaque forms tartar, that tartar develops under the gumline. During scaling and planing, your dentist cleans below your gums to clear out the tartar and bacteria.
Doing so helps rebuild your gums by allowing them to your teeth, and it’s one of the services this dentist offers.
Gum Disease Surgery
Surgery is another option for those with gum disease. It is invasive, but it is also one of the most effective ways to reverse the progression of gum disease.
During the procedure, your dentist cuts your gums back and removes all plaque and bacteria from the exposed tooth. They’ll then stitch the gums back in place, closing any open gum pockets.
You Can Reverse Gum Disease
Have you been diagnosed with periodontal disease? You’re not alone. Far too many Americans suffer from some form of gum disease.
Don’t worry. By investing in your oral hygiene and visiting a dentist regularly, you can reverse gum disease.
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