- Gums that are red, swollen, and tender.
- Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing.
- Gums that pull away or shrink from the teeth.
- Bad breath that won’t go away.
- Pus coming from the gums.
- A change in how your teeth fit together when you bite.
- Loose teeth.
TREATMENT
- If you have a mild case of gum disease, you will probably be able to take care of it by brushing and flossing your teeth every day and getting regular cleanings at your dentist’s office.
- If your gum disease has become worse and you have periodontitis, your dentist or dental hygienist will clean your teeth using a method called root planing and scaling. This removes the plaque and tartar buildup both above and below the gum line. You may also need to take antibiotics to help get rid of the infection in your mouth. If your gum disease is severe, you may need to have surgery.
- Gum disease is most common in adults, but it can affect anyone, even children. So good dental habits are important throughout your life:
- Brush your teeth 2 times a day, in the morning and before bedtime, with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss your teeth once each day.
- Visit your dentist for regular checkups and teeth cleaning.
- Don’t use tobacco products.
If you think you have a mild case of gum disease, make sure to take care of it before it gets worse. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy by brushing & flossing techniques you learn from the orthodontist and don’t forget to get regular checkups from your dentist to keep the disease from getting worse.
Having gum disease may increase a pregnant woman’s risk of having a premature, low-birth-weight baby. Also, studies have found a direct link between between heart disease and the bacteria that cause gum disease. So taking good care of your teeth and gums may have benefits beyond keeping your mouth healthy