Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a condition in which the gums and bone around the teeth become infected. Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden and turn into tartar. Tartar can cause the gums to become inflamed and bleed.
Gum disease is preventable with proper oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily will remove plaque from the teeth. Regular dental checkups are also important in order to remove tartar and to detect gum disease in its early stages. Treatment for gum disease at https://www.mapledentalhygienecare.com/treatment-of-gum-disease/ may include deep cleaning, antibiotics, or surgery.
The most common treatment for gum disease is a deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing. This is a procedure where the dentist or hygienist cleans below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar buildup. They will also smooth out any rough spots on the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from collecting there again.
In more severe cases, your dentist may recommend surgery to correct the problem. This can involve procedures like flap surgery, where they lift up the gums to clean underneath them more thoroughly, or bone grafting, where they replace any bone that has been lost due to gum disease.
No matter what treatment your dentist recommends, it is important that you follow their instructions carefully and continue to practice good oral hygiene at home. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. With proper care, you can keep your gums healthy and avoid further problems down the road.