Your gums are the foundation of your oral health. If they become infected, they can impact the health of your teeth and put you at risk for other serious health issues. Your heart can be affected by gum disease, putting you at higher risk for stroke and other issues. You may also be at higher risk for type 2 diabetes and other health complications. At Vista Dental Care, we strive to help our patients prevent gum disease and offer dental treatment to stop the progression of this serious infection.
Gum disease occurs when bacteria that cause plaque and tartar accumulate in the mouth. Even if you take care of your teeth and gums by brushing and flossing, bacteria can hide in crevices that are difficult to clean. When plaque is formed by these bacteria, it can harden into tartar. This can irritate the gums and begin an infection. The gum tissues can become swollen, red and tender; they may bleed when you brush your teeth. These are early signs of gum disease, or gingivitis, which we can treat at our office.
Regular professional cleanings are the base care you need to help prevent gum disease. Most people should have cleanings at least twice a year. Our hygienist can inspect your gums and identify any signs of gum disease. If the gums are irritated, swollen or have begun to recede from the teeth, we can begin treatment. Frequent or deep cleanings can be used to fight gum disease. We also may recommend special mouthwash you can use at home as part of your oral hygiene to stop the infection.
The good news is, gum disease is treatable and reversible in the early stages. This is why it is so important to come in for your routine checkups and cleanings. Contact Vista Dental Care today to schedule your next checkup.
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