Recognizing The Benefits of Dental Implants

Your dentist performs a variety of services to help ensure that your teeth remain healthy. However, they also desire to protect the health of your gums. 

The state of your gingival tissues has a direct impact on the health and longevity of your teeth. Once the gums become severely diseased, gingival infections can spread to the jawbone, resulting in the atrophy of the bone material. If the jawbone shrinks significantly, the teeth can loosen in their sockets and eventually fall out. 

Several gingival conditions can present as the health of the gums deteriorates. Here are a few of them.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. The condition is indicated by uncomfortable gingival symptoms, such as bleeding, soreness, swelling, and redness. As the condition presents, you may first notice symptoms when you brush your teeth. The bristles of your toothbrush may become pink or red from blood as you brush.  

Gingivitis can worsen if left untreated. Nevertheless, the treatment for gingivitis can normally be performed at home. Regular brushing, flossing, and the use of an antimicrobial mouth rinse can usually reverse gingivitis. If you feel that the use of string floss is too difficult, an oral irrigation device can be used in its stead.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease. Indications of the condition include spaces that develop between the gums and the teeth, gum recession, bad breath, and mouth pain. 

Unlike gingivitis, in order to resolve, periodontitis usually requires professional intervention. Brushing and flossing are still important. However, alone, they are insufficient as a treatment for the disease.

To treat the condition, the dentist often performs root scaling and planing procedures in which tartar, plaque, and bacteria are removed from the tooth material above and below the gumline. Additionally, the roots of the teeth are smoothed to lessen gingival irritation. The dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to help treat any gingival infections.

Peri-implantitis

Peri-implantitis occurs in the gingival tissues that surround a dental implant. The condition occurs as plaque and debris become trapped in the folds of the gums. 

Peri-implantitis can often be treated by cleaning the gums thoroughly with an oral irrigator, using an antimicrobial mouthwash, and brushing and flossing as directed. Additionally, the dentist may prescribe oral antibiotics. 

Left untreated, peri-implantitis can prevent the healing of the insertion wound from the implant surgery. Osseointegration may also be prevented.

If you are experiencing abnormal gingival symptoms, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area. Click here for info on dental practices or visit other dental websites.