Gum Infection Header Phoenix Ahwatukee AZ

Gum Infection Treatment In Phoenix & Ahwatukee, AZ

Causes, Treatment, Prevention & FAQs

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About Gum Infection

Gum infections, also known as gingivitis, are one of the leading causes of tooth loss and tooth pain in the United States. This condition occurs when bacteria build up between the gum and your tooth until it becomes a chronic irritation. If left untreated, this can lead to more serious oral health problems such as damage and inflammation in the gums and jaw.

While there are many ways to prevent gum disease, such as brushing daily and flossing once a day, if you suspect that you or someone you know may have this condition, visit your dentist or dental hygienist as soon as possible.

Gum Disease Gingivitis Phoenix Ahwatukee AZ
Gum Infection Causes Phoenix Ahwatukee AZ

Causes of Gum Infection

  • Dental plaque: This is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. Its main cause is sticky foods and drinks such as soda and candy that stick to your teeth after eating or drinking them. The saliva in your mouth also contains bacteria. This film of bacteria sticks to the teeth and hardens into plaque. As plaque builds up, it gradually forms tartar, a hardened form of plaque that adheres to the surface of the teeth.
  • Mouth breathing: The decrease in the amount of oxygen in saliva caused by mouth breathing opens the door for bacteria that cause gum disease. Saliva is important to assist in the removal of plaque and keeping your mouth clean.
  • Tobacco use: Smoking tobacco increases the risk of getting gum disease because it promotes bacteria growth and stimulates periodontal cells that lead to bone loss.
  • Overweight or obesity: Being overweight or obese puts extra force on your teeth and results in wear and tear. The hormonal changes brought on by obesity can cause oral bacteria to grow at an increased rate, contributing to inflammation and damage to the gums.
  • Lack of saliva: Saliva is an important part of your mouth’s defense system against bacteria and viruses. Having a dry mouth is another factor that can cause gum disease. However, it’s important to note that saliva only neutralizes bacteria, so it doesn’t kill the bacteria itself. Still, the amount of saliva you produce each day will determine how well your mouth fights off infections.

”The staff and dentist are friendly and helpful. The dental assistant's are very considerate, gentle and do a very good job of communicating with the patient. One of the things I like is they provide me both a status of how I'm doing and also suggestions for things I may consider whether it's getting a filling or correcting my bite to reduce bone loss in addition to normal dental procedure improvement recommendation improvements.

James W.Patient
Gum Infection Treatment Phoenix Ahwatukee AZ

Treatment

The first thing to do is get professional help from your dentist or dental hygienist. And then, you need to keep up with your regular dental visits for continued treatment and hygiene. The most common and effective way of treating gum disease is scaling and root planing, removing plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and below the gum line.

Prevention

  • Brushing twice a day: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is the best way to prevent gum disease. Brushing removes natural debris like food particles, plaque, and polish residue. It’s not just cleaning your teeth, though. It’s also ‘scraping’ the surface of your teeth away from the gum line and under the gums.
  • Flossing: Flossing is one of the easiest ways to keep your gums healthy and healthy gums are essential in preventing gum disease.
  • Use an anti-gingivitis mouthwash: The best way to fight gingivitis is by using an anti-gingivitis mouthwash. Using an anti-gingivitis mouthwash is an effective way to kill bacteria that cause gingivitis while neutralizing acid and cleaning plaque from the surface of your gums.
  • Visit a dental professional at least twice a year for a professional cleaning: Regular professional cleanings every six months are an effective way to keep your mouth healthy. Also, don’t wait if you feel something is wrong and seek help right away.
Gum Infection Prevention Phoenix Ahwatukee AZ
Gum Infection FAQs Phoenix Ahwatukee AZ

FAQs

How long does a gum infection last?

Gum infection or “gum disease” usually clears up within 10 to 14 days. If your gingivitis is more serious, it could take longer to treat. Take charge of your dental health to prevent it from recurring.

What makes it spread?

Gum infections worsen the longer you have them, especially if you don’t pay attention to them. The longer it goes untreated, the more damage to your teeth, gums, and jaw.

Does salt water help gums?

Salt has healing properties that can treat and heal inflamed or swollen gums caused by gum disease.

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