Periodontal disease is a serious infection that can damage the gums and bones that support teeth. It may result in the loss of teeth if neglected. But, periodontal disease is reversible. In most cases, if it’s caught early. Read this article and learn how Periodontal Disease Reversal?
Types of periodontal disease
The two basic kinds of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontitis. To find out more about each, look down below.
- Gingivitis
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums. It can be caused by multiple elements, including plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth, poor oral hygiene, and smoking. Gingivitis may also signify other health problems, such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS. Gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a more dangerous form of gum disease, if it is not treated.
- Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a more severe condition of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss and other health problems if left untreated. It is caused by plaque and tartar formation on the teeth, poor oral hygiene, and smoking. Symptoms of periodontitis include bleeding gums, redness and swelling in the gums, bad breath, and loose teeth. Treatment for periodontitis may include antibiotics, scaling and root planing (deep teeth cleaning), and surgery.
How to reverse periodontal disease?
Did you know that there are methods to reverse periodontal disease? It’s true! And if you have the disease – or even if you think you might have it –it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and even systemic health problems like heart disease and diabetes.
- Schedule Regular Dental Visits
There are several steps to reverse periodontal disease, starting with regular dental visits. Visiting your dentist every three to four months is essential for periodontal maintenance. These visits help maintain your gum health and prevent the loss of the jaw bone around your teeth. They also help prevent further disease progression. These visits are usually recommended more often for patients with a history of periodontal disease.
Your dentist will perform special cleaning procedures to remove tartar and plaque. These visits may also involve the use of medications to prevent infection. If the problem persists after these visits, your dentist may need to perform surgery. Your dentist will also focus on eliminating tartar and plaque from the periodontal pockets.
After your dentist performs root planing and scaling, you may still need regular visits to monitor the condition of your gums. However, these treatments will significantly improve your oral health and minimise your chances of developing more serious health issues related to gum disease. Click here to read this article to tackle common dental problems
Your dentist will perform a “scaling” to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and root surfaces. You may be given local anaesthesia during this procedure. This procedure is often spread over several dental visits.
- Quit Smoking or Chewing Tobacco
One of the most significant factors for periodontal disease reversal is quitting smoking or chewing tobacco. Tobacco holds nicotine, which is addictive and causes many health problems.
However, quitting smoking or chewing tobacco can improve the health of your gums and teeth and decrease the risk of acquiring cardiovascular disease, stroke, and cancer. You can quit by using nicotine replacement products or by seeking advice from your healthcare provider.
There are several medications available to help smokers quit tobacco. These include nicotine gum, patches, and lozenges. Consult your health care provider for the right medication for you.
Smoking affects your mouth and can cause a wide range of changes. Nicotine in cigarettes acts on blood vessels, making them tighter. It decreases blood flow to the gums and bones. It worsens gum disease and inhibits the healing process after tooth extractions. Moreover, smoking can cause oral cancer. In addition, smoking interferes with the blood flow in the mouth and delays the healing process after oral surgery.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Periodontal disease is caused by the formation of plaque around the teeth. This buildup contains millions of bacteria that can affect the soft tissues and bone supporting the teeth. Over time, these bacteria can travel under the gums and cause inflammation. This inflammation can lead to gum disease or gingivitis. The good news is that you can reverse the progression of this disease with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.
As with any chronic disease, practising good oral hygiene is important for periodontal disease reversal. Brushing twice daily with a soft circular motion and flossing will prevent plaque buildup. While brushing, be sure to brush the tongue and gums as well.
Flossing is essential for maintaining good oral health, and using a Waterpik flosser will help remove bacteria. In addition to brushing, try chewing sugar-free gum to promote healthy gums.
Rehearsing good oral hygiene can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. It also decreases the need for dental treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regarding the reversal of periodontal disease, there are numerous FAQs. Here are a few of the most familiar ones.
- What are the early signs of periodontal disease?
The early signs of periodontal disease are red, swollen, bleeding gums, bad breath and loose teeth.
- What are the late signs of periodontal disease?
The late signs of periodontal disease are a change in the colour of the gums from red to purple or black, pus drainage, advancing recession of the gums, tooth mobility, and severe bone loss.
Are there any home remedies for Periodontal Disease Reversal?
There are a few home remedies that you can use to reverse periodontal diseases. Some of these remedies include rinsing the mouth with salt water, hydrogen peroxide, and an antibacterial mouthwash. Still, it is important to consult a doctor before starting any at-home treatment regimens to avoid potential complications.
The bottom line
We’ve got the answers for you if you’re looking for a way to improve your oral health and Periodontal Disease Reversal. Check out our helpful tips on quitting smoking or chewing tobacco, practising good oral hygiene, and FAQs about reversing periodontal disease. Plus, don’t forget to consult with your doctor before starting any home remedies. Let us help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health!
