Is It Possible To Reverse Periodontal Disease?
Did you visit the dentist and were told that you are suffering from periodontal disease? If so, you are likely wondering what you can do to reverse the disease and stop it from getting worse. Here are some things that you need to know about improving your oral health when you have periodontal disease.
Brush And Floss Regularly
The first thing that you need to do is get into the habit of brushing and flossing regularly. Your home care is the best defense against periodontal disease, and it is why many people end up suffering from it. Be aware that gum disease is not going to go away quickly, since it will take some time and a lot of work to help reverse the damage that has been done.
Have Scaling And Root Planing Performed
Your dentist will likely recommend that you return to the dentist for scaling and root planing. While this may seem like a complicated procedure, it is actually a fancy way of referring to a deep cleaning. The scaling and root planing procedure is when the dentist will go deep below the gum line to remove all of that hardened tartar that has collected in those pockets. The plaque is not going to come out through regular brushing and will require professional help to remove it.
Since scaling and root planing is so thorough, your dentist will likely numb your mouth so that it is not painful. The time it takes for scaling and root planing may also require that you return for two separate visits. The dentist will do half of your mouth on one visit, and the other half on the next visit.
Take Antibiotics For An Infection
It's also possible that your dentist will prescribe you antibiotics if you are dealing with a bacterial infection in your gums. Getting rid of the infection is key, but it will only really work if your teeth are clean. Fighting a bacterial infection with antibiotics will not do much good if that tartar is still there to infect your teeth again.
Get Gum Flap Surgery
Your dentist can also help reduce the pockets of your gums so that plaque and tartar do not collect in them. This is known as gum flap surgery, and it will help ensure that the gums are in the right position to reduce the number of bacteria that collects in your mouth.
Talk to your dentist to learn more about periodontal disease.