Heightened stress associated with the ongoing global pandemic has led many individuals to pay less attention to their dental care. However, your oral health plays a major role in your overall wellbeing and should not be ignored, especially in the current climate.
A recent study suggests that patients with gum disease are more likely to experience severe complications from COVID-19. This is due to the link between gum inflammation and the body’s systemic inflammatory response.
You should talk to your dentist if you have concerns about your gum health as soon as you can. The experts at Gwaltney Dental, a dental practice in Suffolk, VA, describes the importance of seeking prompt treatment for periodontal disease.
Do I Have Gum Disease?
Gum disease occurs when natural bacteria in your mouth spread and infect your gums. This condition can present in patients with no noticeable symptoms. This is why seeing your dentist for routine oral examinations is important to your health.
Your dentist can spot potential periodontal problems during these visits and develop a treatment plan accordingly. Dentists recommend scheduling a dental cleaning and exam every six months.
Some patients with periodontal disease may notice swollen, sore, or bleeding gums. If you experience these symptoms, and they do not go away, you should contact your dental professional.
What Periodontal Treatment Can I Expect?
If your dentist diagnoses you with gum disease, they will likely first perform a thorough cleaning of your gums to eliminate plaque build-up and excess bacteria. This extensive cleaning method is called scaling and root planing.
If the infection persists, your dentist may suggest laser dental treatments that can remove the infection and damaged gum tissue. In severe cases, dentists could recommend oral surgery to stitch gums closer to your teeth. This decreases the size of gum pockets to make the area easier to keep clean and lower your risk of contracting periodontal disease.
Your dentist may also ask you to use antibacterial mouthwash as part of your oral hygiene routine to balance bacteria in your mouth. Dentists emphasize preventative care, including good oral hygiene habits and regular dental cleanings, in order to promote periodontal health.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease Available in Suffolk, VA
Gwaltney Dental offers treatment for periodontal disease and other dental conditions in patients in Suffolk, VA. Our practice specializes in cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 757.982.8467.