7 out of 10 Canadians may be suffering from gum disease without even knowing it. Gum disease can sneak up on you because it starts painlessly and without obvious symptoms. Unless you pay regular visits to your dentist in Toronto, you won’t be able to notice the early signs of gum disease until you experience pain, or worse, teeth loss.
Causes
Gum disease often starts with plaque, an invisible sticky film that forms on your teeth and around your gums from substances found in the food you eat. Brushing and flossing regularly can remove plaque. With improper brushing or poor oral hygiene, plaque can harden into tartar which provides a breeding ground for bacteria. Unless you see a dentist, a condition called gingivitis can develop at the point of attachment between the gum and teeth which can lead to oral problems like sensitive teeth, mouth pain, and teeth loss.
Prevention
Prevention is still the best approach to gum disease because by the time you may notice its symptoms, you may already have gingivitis or your gum problem may already be at the advanced stage which poses a risk for teeth loss. The following habits will help avoid gum disease: 1. Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day. 2. Floss at least once a day. 3. Visit your dentist in Toronto regularly to have your teeth professionally cleaned and to detect gum disease. 4. In between dental visits, check your gums regularly for signs of disease such as the following: * red gums * tiny pockets of infection * bad breath that does not seem to go away * swollen or puffy gums * bleeding while brushing teeth
Treatment
Early detection increases your chances of successful and fast treatment. While plaque may be eliminated by brushing and flossing, only a dentist can remove tartar. When gum disease is caught at the initial stages, your dentist or dental hygienist may remove tartar buildup and recommend regular brushing and flossing to keep it from coming back. More serious infections may require treatment by a periodontist who is a dental specialist with advanced training in gum treatment and bone and gum tissue restoration. Gum disease can easily be prevented with regular oral hygiene but if you notice any of the early warning signs, it should not be taken lightly. Seeking immediate treatment from your dentist in Toronto improves your chances of reversing damage and keeps it from progressing.
