Preventing Periodontal Diseases

Preventing Periodontal Diseases

Posted by Stonewall Dental Associates on Jan 20 2021, 08:53 PM

Periodontitis, or gum disease, is a gum tissue infection that destroys the soft tissue and damages the alveolar bone that supports our teeth, leading to tooth loss if left untreated. Besides, periodontal disease also affects a person's overall health if the bacteria that causes gum disease enters the bloodstream.

Mostly, periodontitis occurs as a result of the person's poor oral hygiene. Though this condition is quite common, it is largely preventable with a great deal of oral care and maintenance of consistent oral hygiene practices. Besides, it is critical to ensure that you never miss your biannual dental checkups at Stonewall Dental Associates as our patients receive a complete dental examination to check the onset of periodontal disease or the genetic risk of getting the same.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Plaque, the sticky bacteria-filled film that gets accumulated on the teeth as a result of poor oral hygiene habits, is one of the major causes of periodontal disease. When the harmful bacteria present in the plaque produce toxins, it leads to the breakdown of the gum tissue, resulting in the pulling away of the gums from the teeth. Besides, periodontal pockets containing even more plaque, bacteria, and toxins can develop, and the plaque and bacteria can move down the tooth root, destroying the supporting bone, leading to loosened teeth. 

The other major causes of periodontal disease are as follows:

  • Genetics.
  • A Diet low in nutrients and vitamins.
  • Smoking and tobacco use.
  • Stress.
  • Diseases like diabetes, lymphoma, leukemia, rheumatoid arthritis, and HIV.
  • The elevated levels of hormones during pregnancy.
  • Medications like steroids, certain anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, and oral contraceptives.

If you are concerned about the wellness of your gums and are looking for ways to prevent or treat gum disease, here are a few tips for you.

  • Always Practice Proper Oral Hygiene

Everyone knows how important it is to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once daily. Practicing proper oral hygiene is effective in preventing periodontal disease to a large extent. 

  • Visit a Periodontist Regularly

Never skip your biannual dental visits at Stonewall Dental Associates for early diagnosis and treatment of the disease. During your dental checkup, our dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth, assess your risk for periodontal disease, and identify any factors that may increase the risk of the same. If we find out that you have periodontal disease, we will suggest treatment options to prevent the side effects.

  • Identify the Symptoms of the Disease and Get It Treated at the Earliest

Gum disease usually occurs in three stages - gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. The early symptoms of gingivitis come as red and swollen gums and bad breath. Knowing the symptoms, identifying them at the earliest, getting them treated at Stonewall Dental Associates, and following proper oral hygiene habits can reverse the condition.

  • If Your Dentist Recommends Scaling and Root Planing, Do It

We know that several patients are anxious about getting dental or periodontal treatments. However, if your dentist recommends scaling and root planing, never let your dental fear prevent you from getting the right treatment. Having a deep cleaning at Stonewall Dental Associates can help reverse the periodontal disease and prevent advanced symptoms like jawbone loss or tooth loss.

To learn more about how to prevent gum disease, schedule an appointment with Stonewall Dental Associates by calling at (703) 368-1000 or visiting us at 8719 Stonewall Rd, Manassas, VA 20110.







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Location

8719 Stonewall Rd, Manassas, VA 20110

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Email: reception@stonewalldental.com

Phone: (703) 368-1000