Gum disease is a bacterial infection that can get out of control quickly. Periodontal disease treatment is the secret to saving your smile from inflammation, sensitivity, and loss.
While there are four stages of periodontal disease—ranging from mild gingivitis to advanced periodontitis—there are procedures that a dentist can perform to reverse or manage them, including:
- Scaling and root planing
- Laser decontamination
- Laser therapy
After patients have received periodontal disease treatment, what can they do to ensure long-term success? Here are five tips for mastering gum health and keeping gingival bacteria at bay:
1. At-home Oral Hygiene
The first line of defense in oral health is maintaining a consistent at-home oral hygiene routine performed twice a day, which includes:
- Brushing teeth with a fluoride toothpaste
- Removing food particles between teeth
- Rinsing the mouth out with a gentle, anti-bacterial mouthwash
2. Professional Dental Cleanings
While daily brushing and flossing help control bacteria and keep teeth clean, a dental hygienist can remove deep, caked-on tartar through professional dental cleaning. Over time, unremoved plaque hardens into tartar, which cannot be eliminated from brushing and flossing alone. If tartar isn’t eradicated, it triggers the inflammatory response of gum infection.
Most dentists recommend routine dental cleanings every six months for healthy smiles, but more frequent professional cleanings can help curb plaque and tartar accumulation for people with gum disease.
3. Healthy Diet
A straightforward way to support gum health is to have a diet rich in vitamins and nutrients that strengthen teeth and gums, including:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables are crunchy and full of fiber, which helps keep the teeth plaque-free.
- Dairy products are high in calcium, which is excellent for teeth. Additionally, yogurt is full of healthy bacteria, which may help prevent cavities.
- Nuts are low in sugar and high in fiber and minters, which encourage teeth and gum health.
- Whole grains are full of B-vitamins, iron, and magnesium, which keeps gums, teeth, and bones strong. Whole grains also help the body better balance blood sugar.
- Plenty of water throughout the day keeps teeth clean, which is critical in supporting gum health.
- Teas are rich in polyphenols, which prevent oral bacteria and reduce the risk of soft tissue inflammation.
4. No Nicotine
Cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and e-cigarettes contain the same addicting chemical: nicotine. Tobacco in any form raises your risk of developing gum disease and worsens existing gum infections. Smokers have twice the risk of developing gum disease than non-smokers. Likewise, quitting tobacco products encourages healing after treatment.
5. Chew Sugarless Gum
The next time you’re in line at the store, look for a pack of sugar-free chewing gum with the ADA Seal. The American Dental Association suggests chewing sugarless chewing gum for 20 minutes after meals to increase saliva flow. A dry mouth can lead to cavities, which can irritate the gums and worsen gingivitis and periodontitis. Gums that contain artificial sweeteners (such as Xylitol) have many cavity-fighting benefits, including:
- Washing away food remnants and other debris
- Neutralizing acids produced by oral bacteria
- Strengthening enamel
Schedule Periodontal Disease Treatment in Austin, TX
At Austin Laser Dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale educates patients on sustaining healthy gums after scaling and root planing or laser therapy. She offers comfort-focused, contemporary care for patients struggling with their gum health and more.
To learn more about how laser dentistry can improve your gum health, book an appointment by calling (512) 346-4690 or contact us online at your earliest convenience.
