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DO YOU HAVE GUM DISEASE?

Not sure? You’re not alone. It’s actually possible to have a gum disease and have not clear symptoms, according to the American Dental Association. As a result, only 3 percent of Americans seek treatment for their gum disease, despite the fact that three out of four Americans have some form of the condition, according to the American Academy of Periodontology. These can range from mild cases of gingivitis to the more severe condition known as periodontitis.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is crucial that you seek treatment as soon as possible. These include:

  • Red or purple gums
  • Tender or puffy gums
  • Swelling in the gums
  • Gums that bleed while brushing, flossing or eating
  • Gums that recede and show more of your tooth in the process
  • Pain while biting or chewing
  • Extreme sensitivity, especially to hot or cold stimuli
  • Chronic bad breath

WHY YOU SHOULD SEEK TREATMENT IN SALINAS

If you notice that your gums are bleeding after flossing, but this does not continue after a few days of continuously flossing, this implies that you have minor gingivitis and should continue flossing and improving your overall oral care. Doing so will clear away plaque in between your gums and prevent future development of gum disease.

However, those who do not see improvements or experience any of the symptoms mentioned previously should see a dentist for treatment. Failing to do so can result in:

  • Increased dental sensitivity
  • Permanent damage to gum and bone tissue
  • Significant oral discomfort
  • Tooth loss

WHAT DOES TREATMENT ENTAIL?

When you visit a dentist in Salinas for treatment, you’ll be able to receive scaling and root planing to treat your gum disease. Scaling works to remove plaque from above and below the gum line. Since at-home brushing cannot reach below the gum line, it is insufficient to treat and manage gum disease on its own. Root planing is designed to smooth out the roots of teeth and promote their reattachment to the gums. This also works to reduce the risk of future gum infections later.

The last thing you should do in the face of gum disease is nothing at all. Schedule an appointment with a dentist and start improving your gum health!