How we can prevent gum disease through regular cleanings.   

The first step in preventing gum disease is to understand it. This condition is essentially an infection of the gum tissue. It causes the gums to separate from the teeth and, if not treated, it can progress to a bone infection. The deterioration of gum and bone tissues cause teeth to become loose and eventually fall out if the infection is not stopped.

Here in this article Dr. Konstantine Malafis, a dentist in Astoria  discusses the signs of gum disease and the types of gum disease. 

It is not possible to eliminate all oral bacteria; however, excellent hygiene practices and dental care can prevent the bacteria from congregating in the gums and causing health complications. Plaque is the sticky residue that accumulates on your teeth between brushing. It also accumulates in the shallow groove around teeth, where they meet the gums. If not removed, plaque will harden and turn into tartar, which is difficult to remove. The only effective method of preventing tartar buildup is diligent oral hygiene.

The signs of gum disease include:

• Red, inflamed gums
• Gums that bleed easily when you brush
• Chronic bad breath
• A receding gum line
• Loose or sensitive teeth

Types of Gum Disease

Gum disease is generally categorized as gingivitis or periodontitis. The most important distinction between the two is the severity of the infection. The earliest form of gum disease is gingivitis. It is characterized by inflamed gums that bleed easily. At this stage, it can usually be reversed with good hygiene and conservative treatment.

Because gum disease is progressive, gingivitis can turn into periodontitis, a much more serious condition. At this stage, there are deep pockets around the teeth and the bone begins deteriorating. Periodontitis requires a more aggressive treatment plan . If not treated, periodontitis can increase the risk of other health problems, such as diabetes, respiratory difficulties, and heart disease.

How can you prevent gum disease through regular cleanings?

As always regular dental cleanings are essential in preventing gum disease by effectively removing plaque and tartar buildup that daily brushing and flossing might miss. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, can harden into tartar if not properly cleaned, leading to gum inflammation and, eventually, periodontal disease. Professional cleanings disrupt this process, maintaining gum health.

During these cleanings, dental hygienists use specialized tools to meticulously clean below the gumline, eliminating harmful deposits. This thorough cleaning reduces the risk of gum disease progression and can reverse early-stage gingivitis. Additionally, regular check-ups allow dental professionals to monitor oral health, identify early signs of gum disease, and provide personalized advice on improving oral hygiene practices.

Incorporating professional cleanings into your oral care routine, alongside consistent brushing and flossing, forms a comprehensive approach to preventing gum disease and promoting overall oral health.

Konstantine Malafis, DDS is a dentist in Astoria performing all forms of cosmetic and general dentistry. If you are looking for a teeth cleaning in Astoria then visit us online at www.masterdentalny.com