How to Treat Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health issue affecting the gums and surrounding tissues. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other complications.

At SPA Dental Group, our teams in New York City and Washington, DC, have the expertise and experience to treat gum disease. We can also help you understand how to prevent it. 

Let’s look at what proper treatment and care look like so gum disease can be managed effectively.

1. Practice good oral hygiene

The first step in treating gum disease is to practice optimal oral hygiene. That includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash. These habits remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums — the main causes of gum disease.

2. Visit our practice for routine checkups

Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for treating gum disease. We can diagnose gum disease in its early stages and provide the necessary treatment. 

During a dental cleaning, we remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums to prevent gum disease from developing or getting worse.

3. Use a gum disease treatment

If you have gum disease, we recommend treatment. That may include a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. We may also prescribe antibiotics to fight the infection.

4. Consider lifestyle changes

To treat and prevent gum disease, you can make certain lifestyle changes, such as:

Quitting smoking

Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease and can make it more difficult to treat.

Eating a healthy diet

A diet rich in vitamins and nutrients supports your gum health.

Managing stress

Stress weakens your immune system, making it harder to fight gum infections.

5. Taking care of your overall health

Your oral health is closely linked to the healthy function of your body. That means treating your body well can improve gum disease. 

Here’s what you can do:

Get enough sleep

Lack of sleep weakens the immune system, making it more difficult to fight off gum infections.

Exercise regularly

Regular exercise reduces inflammation in your body to prevent and treat gum disease.

Manage chronic conditions

Certain chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, increase the risk of gum disease, making the management of them essential.

Treating gum disease takes time and effort, but it’s worth it to protect your oral health. By following these tips, you can effectively manage the condition and prevent it from worsening. 

Remember, if you have any concerns about your oral health, book an appointment at the location nearest you. We provide personalized recommendations for treating and preventing gum disease based on your specific needs.

Simply reach out to us today by phone or online.