How to Fix Gum Deterioration

Periodontal disease (commonly known as gum disease) is a serious ailment that can cause deterioration of the gums. It can also lead to connective tissue and tooth deterioration, resulting in loose teeth that might need to be removed. The good news is that symptoms are easy to spot and, using a few healthy habits, it's preventable.

Things You'll Need

• Toothbrush
• Fluoride toothpaste
• Dental floss

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Recognize the symptoms. Periodontitis, the stage of gum disease that involves deterioration, occurs when gingivitis is left untreated. Symptoms of gingivitis include gums that are sensitive or bleed easily when brushed, a bright red appearance to the gums, swollen gums or mouth sores. Loose teeth and receding gums can be symptoms of periodontitis.

• 2

  Brushing twice a day can combat gum disease.

  Brush your teeth at least twice a day. If you recognize any symptoms of gum disease, you'll want to take extra care of your mouth and gums. Bacteria that gathers and turns into plaque causes gum disease, and plaque can be removed through brushing. Choose a toothpaste with fluoride.

• 3

  Floss everyday. Floss not only removes bits of food stuck in your teeth, it can also remove plaque buildup. Neglected plaque that is left to buildup can cause inflammation of the gums. If left to advance to periodontitis, the gums will eventually recede and form pockets that become infected.

• 4

  Stop smoking. If you're a smoker, this is just one more reason to quit. Smoking is thought to contribute to gum disease and can lessen the chance of success when it comes to treating it.

• 5

  Get a professional cleaning. If you have any of the gum disease symptoms, a trip to the dentist is in order. Regular cleaning and checkups can help combat the development of gum disease. If the disease has advanced to a serious stage, your dentist can make other recommendations.

• 6

  Consider a professional treatment. Depending upon what stage your gum disease is at, your dentist might recommend a non-surgical procedure such as scaling and root planing or periodontal surgery. Scaling and root planing involves a cleaning of root surfaces and deep periodontal pockets to remove plaque and tartar. If these methods aren't enough, a surgical option might be recommended.