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Reversing Early-Stage Gum Disease

03/04/2021

Reversing Early-Stage Gum Disease

Hearing that your smile is showing signs of the early stages of gum disease can be highly alarming. Indeed, gum disease can become very serious if left untreated; advanced stages of this condition have been linked to tooth loss, heart attack, and stroke. Fortunately, there are many things that can help reverse gum disease if attended to early enough.

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease is a progressive illness that begins with periodontitis, or inflammation of the gums. When hygiene habits fall slack at home or you skip regular dental visits, bacterial plaque has every opportunity to grow and irritate your gums. If the root cause is left untreated, it’s inevitable that a more serious, chronic condition called gingivitis will set on.

What You Can Do

If you’ve been told that your smile is showing signs of early gum disease, there are several steps you can take to begin improving your periodontal health.

  • Ramp-up your at-home care. If you’ve let home care slack a bit, now is the time to improve your habits. That means flossing at least once per day, brushing your teeth twice a day, and using mouthwash.
  • Visit a dentist for a deep cleaning. Our general dentist in Illinois can examine your smile and provide you with a professional cleaning. This can help clear away buildups in areas that you can’t reach with a basic toothbrush.
  • Stay hydrated. A dry mouth is the perfect breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Be sure to drink plenty of water. You can also use sugarless lozenges and gum to stimulate saliva production.
  • Quit smoking. Smoking can make a person more prone to gum infections and slows the healing process. Now is a great time to cut back or quit altogether.
  • Try to eat healthier. Getting recommended doses of key vitamins and minerals can help boost your immune system and prevent gum disease from spreading.

Visit Our General Dentist in Illinois

Are you looking for a dentist near Elk Grove Village who can help you get your oral health back on track? Get in touch with our team today to schedule an appointment.

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Schumer Family Dental Care

901 Biesterfield Rd. Suite 111

Elk Grove Village, IL 60007

P:    847-439-1371

F:    847-439-1373

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