Gum Disease Cures

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection often resulting from plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. This buildup should be removed by a professional regularly, but when it is not it can easily become infected. Some other causes of gum disease are tobacco use, certain medications, dry mouth, poor nutrition, substance abuse, stress and heredity. However, there is a cure for gum disease. The treatment involves conducting several procedures on a routine basis.

Floss

• Floss every night before brushing. Flossing removes substances that would otherwise build up between the teeth, causing decay and making gums prone to infection.

Brush

• It is important to brush the teeth and gums twice daily with specially formulated toothpaste designed to kill bacteria. Some dentists recommend using a sonic electric toothbrush that uses sound waves to remove plaque. They also recommend using an irrigator to remove particles between teeth and to massage the gums. In addition, don't forget to brush or scrape the tongue, as this helps remove bacteria in the back of the mouth.

Mouthwash

• An antibacterial mouthwash helps curb gum disease in its early stages. For more severe cases of gum disease, a mouthwash called Periogard can be prescribed by the dentist. Periogard removes plaque and contains an ingredient called Chlorhexidine that kills bacteria and prevents them from spreading. It is also important to gargle with the mouthwash to kill any bacteria in the throat.

Gel

• Several antibiotic gels on the market can be applied directly to the gums. The gels are available over the counter or by prescription. An all natural gel is tea tree oil gel, which has proven to be effective in reducing gum bleeding and swelling.

Surgery

• For advanced cases of gum disease, surgery may be needed to address the problem. During surgery, the dentist removes infected gum tissue and thoroughly cleans the area. The healthy gums are then sutured around the teeth, and healing occurs naturally.

Dental Visits

• It is essential to visit a dentist twice a year for an exam, X-rays and cleaning. During a professional cleaning, dentists and hygienists are able to remove tartar buildup that cannot be removed by brushing alone. Dentists can also detect early signs of gum disease, which makes treatment more effective. A dental professional will provide personalized action steps and follow up with care.