Keeping up with your periodontal health will be important for more reasons than you might realize. In the long term, a person who protects themselves against gum disease is less likely to experience tooth loss, and they can also reduce their risks for potentially serious problems like heart disease. The good news is that you can count on your dentist’s support when it comes to avoiding trouble with your gums. At our Virginia Beach, VA dentist’s office, we provide regular reviews of patients’ gums and teeth when they come in for routine care. We can also provide guidance to help you both care for your gums and look out for the warning signs of an infection!
How Poor Gum Health Can Affect You
The bacteria that cause problems with gingivitis should not be taken lightly. When an infection is not treated in time, it can become more advanced. When that progression is allowed to occur, the threat can become more severe as well as more difficult to manage. In time, harmful microbes that are spreading on the roots of your teeth can do serious tissue damage, which can lead to the loss of teeth. You also need to be aware of the risk to your overall health from the movement of bacteria through the bloodstream. When they arrive at different areas and create problems with inflammation, it can create new health worries.
We Can Provide Support When Patients Show Signs Of Gingivitis
If a patient is exhibiting signs of gingivitis during a routine dental exam, we can recommend a periodontal cleaning. This differs from the cleaning that will take place at a normal appointment. During a periodontal cleaning, care is taken to tend to bacteria that are present under the gums. By removing these microbes that are present on your roots, we can stop an infection from progressing further and give the tissues the opportunity to heal. The good news is that at this stage, the tissues can return to their healthy state and you can be free from possible complications. If the infection has already progressed past the stage of gingivitis, we can talk to you about treatment options, which may include visiting with a specialist.
What You Can Do To Protect Your Gums Between Your Appointments
During your daily brushing and flossing efforts, make sure that you clean thoroughly at the bases of your teeth and at the gumline. Plaque deposits can accumulate in these areas, leading to an increased risk for infection. Flossing can be particularly important, as bacteria that gather between your teeth can escape the reach of your brush.
Talk To Your Virginia Beach, VA Dentist About Your Periodontal Health
To find out more about how we can help you manage your periodontal health, reach out to Absolute Dental Care in Virginia Beach, VA at 757-428-7440.
