Birmingham Dental
Dental hygienists will caution you on the importance of proper brushing and flossing techniques in order to prevent common dental issues. In our Birmingham dentist office we strive to educate the public on issues of prevention and maintaining healthy oral habits. If it’s been awhile since you’ve had a dental exam your teeth might not be in the best condition they could be and you may find yourself at risk for serious issues such as gum disease.
While there are various levels of gum disease, more appropriately known as periodontal disease, in its more serious stages it can even lead to cardiovascular disease. Signs of gum disease would include bleeding or swollen gums, bad breath (caused by bacteria), tooth mobility, tooth sensitivity (receding gums can cause this), abscessed teeth and, in serious cases, tooth loss.
Plaque and tartar buildup are what lead to gum disease, so it is important to have regular cleanings by a dental hygienist to ensure that you do not develop this condition.
One thing it might surprise you to know is that people with diabetes tend to have higher instances of gum disease. This is thought to be due to the higher blood glucose levels in those with diabetes, which causes inflammation. A chronic inflammatory response brings on a condition whereby the body breaks down bone and tissue in the infected area. People with diabetes need to take extra care to adhere to proper brushing and flossing techniques and see a dental professional for regular checkups and exams to ensure gum disease does not advance.
If you are currently expecting then it’s important for you to know that periodontal disease is more common in pregnant women. Women are more susceptible to gingivitis while pregnant and research has shown that women with gum disease deliver pre-term infants at a rate three to five times higher than those without any form of periodontal disease. Since pre-term babies can suffer numerous health complications it is of vital importance that expectant mothers receive regular dental care and follow good brushing and flossing habits. Professionals in our Birmingham dentist office are on hand to provide cleanings and can advise you on proper brushing habits.
If you are already suffering from gum disease, dental hygienists in our Birmingham dentist office can advise you on treatment options. You may simply need some scaling done on your teeth to remove tartar and plaque buildup. This would be the first step in treating gum disease. A medicated mouth rinse called chlorhexidine gluconate may be in order to kill off bacteria already present. Following this up with frequent cleanings is often necessary. Only in very serious cases of periodontal disease would surgery be called for to halt or minimize the progression of the disease or to replace bone lost in advanced stages of the disease.
We in our Birmingham dentist office urge you to contact us right away if you are experiencing any signs of gum disease.
