Toothaches are not only painful but may be a sign of periodontal disease. Pre-existing conditions such as pregnancy, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders may also affect the health of your teeth and mouth. Scheduling regular checkups with your dentist can prevent infections by providing teeth cleaning services.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is also known as gum disease, which is an infection of the soft tissue around the teeth. The infection is caused by a buildup of tartar and plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a film that covers the teeth in bacteria. When plaque sits on the gums and teeth, it hardens into tartar. A dentist can remove plaque and tartar more efficiently than a regular toothbrush.
Pain is your body’s way of communicating to you that something is wrong, such as a toothache. Toothaches are caused by infections that create inflammation and swelling, putting pressure on the nerve within your tooth. Infections will not go away on their own. Common symptoms of infections are:
- Bad breath that won’t go away.
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing.
- Sensitivity and pain when eating.
- Loose adult teeth or gaps between teeth.
Dentist Recommendations for Periodontal Disease
Keeping a healthy hygiene routine involves brushing and flossing daily to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Some people may be at a higher risk for periodontal disease because of pre-existing conditions that affect their overall health. Cancer and chemotherapy also play a role in weakening the immune system. Hormone changes such as pregnancy may also influence your mouth’s ability to salivate and protect itself from bacteria. Here are a few ways to combat periodontal disease:
1. Change Your Routine
Brush your teeth in the morning, before bed, and floss once a day. Scheduling annual or bi-annual cleanings allows your dentist to keep track of your health and can prevent cavities. Acidic and sour foods like candy should also be eaten in moderation to avoid wearing down the surface of your teeth, which is known as enamel. Once your enamel is gone, it will not grow back.
2. Teeth Cleaning
Our dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup in hard-to-reach places such as permanent retainers, braces, and around bridges. This allows us to catch any issues before they develop into more serious conditions like cavities. We also offer at-home or in-office teeth whitening services for a brighter smile.
3. Surgical Intervention
Once an infection has settled into the tooth itself, a root canal is an option to save the tooth. A root canal is a procedure where the infected tissue is removed and replaced with an amalgamated composite within the tooth, helping to save it. Discoloration, looseness, and pain can be signs of a deep infection. Infections do not go away on their own and can even migrate to other parts of the body like the jaw.
Schedule an Appointment Today
At Rocky Ridge Dental we provide comprehensive care for you and your family, along with preventative care, cosmetic dentistry, and restoration services. With bi-annual teeth cleaning, you can prevent or stop periodontal disease. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
