Tooth decay and gum disease are both oral health issues that affect many people at some point in their lives. Nearly 50% of all adults over 30 years of age suffer from gum diseases while 25% develop untreated tooth decay. There are ways to help prevent these two oral issues. However, if you are already suffering from tooth decay or gum disease you might be wondering how to combat the effects.
In order to address how to best fight the effects of these two conditions, it is important to first understand the different effects themselves. Naturally, the signs and symptoms of tooth decay and gum disease vary according to their extent and location. Below are some of the different pain points you might experience if you are suffering from these problems:
- Toothache and/or spontaneous pain
- Bright red swollen gums
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Tooth sensitivity when eating cold or hot foods
- Stains on the teeth, usually black or brown in color
- Holes in the teeth
- Pain when biting
- Loose tooth or teeth
These symptoms might sound daunting, especially if you are suffering from them. Having said that, we do not want you to lose hope. These are some of the ways in which you can combat the effects of tooth decay and gum disease:
Consistent and Thorough Oral Hygiene Habits
Proper oral hygiene habits are crucial in preventing and combating tooth decay and gum disease. Consistency is your best ally here. The goal is to brush the teeth properly twice a day minimum and to implement daily flossing habits.
Routine Dental Cleanings
Dental cleanings and checkups are important for your overall oral health. This is especially true when it comes to tooth decay and gum disease. Dental cleanings remove any and all the gunk that sits in your mouth and feeds bacteria which eventually turns into plaque. Our team at Alluvial recommends bi-annual dental cleanings for optimum results.
Mouth Rinsing
There are mouth rinses that target oral bacteria. These are the options you will want to go for if you are suffering from tooth decay and gum disease. It is important that you choose a mouth rinse that has been developed specifically for your problem.
Deep Scaling and Root Planing
In more advanced situations, deep scaling may be necessary. This is a procedure in which the plaque and tartar from below the gum lines are removed. The gum tissue is pushed back in a gentle manner and the exposed surfaces of the roots are cleaned through root planing. This removes the inflammatory agents under the gums and promotes reattachment to the gums.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is another option to treat gum disease. The soft-tissue laser treats the gum pockets to remove the bacteria deep in the pockets. This often helps remove unhealthy tissue and promotes healing.
These are some of the options available to combat the effects of tooth decay and gum disease. Having said that, each situation is different and the best way to find a solution for yourself is to consult a professional. Our dentists and hygienists here at Alluvial are happy to help you find the best treatment option for your specific situation. If you are suffering from these conditions, please give us a call to set up a checkup and cleaning. We are here to support you and help you achieve a healthy smile again.
