Periodontal disease, also called periodontitis, is the inflammation of your gums. Periodontal disease is not only painful at times, but it can lead to dangerous infection and damage to the bone and tissues that support your teeth. Symptoms of gum disease include swollen, bleeding gums, bad breath and loose permanent teeth. Routine dental checkups can help prevent and treat periodontal disease, but according to the American Dental Association (ADA), there is a large amount of self-care you can do without the aid of a dentist to treat and prevent the progression of the disease (see Resources).
Instructions
1. Treat periodontal disease by managing diabetes and other health conditions that may have an effect on your dental health. Systemic diseases and some of the treatments, such as drugs to treat cancer, may increase your risk of developing periodontal disease. If you suffer from these ailments, consult with your doctor about ways to protect your gums.
2. Quit using tobacco products to help stop the progression and even reverse the signs of gum disease. The ADA reports that people who smoke or chew tobacco are more at risk for gum disease. Once you stop using tobacco and nicotine products, your gums will begin to heal.
3. Brush your teeth with a toothpaste that reduces plaque buildup, such as Crest Pro-Health. Gingivitis, a less serious form of periodontal disease, affects your gums and can be treated by removing plaque and tartar that many people have along their gum lines. Use a mirror to see where red, swollen gums may indicate the beginnings of periodontal disease.
4. Target plaque more easily by using a plaque-fighting rinse after brushing your teeth. Some rinses for children (which adults can use as well) help pinpoint problem spots by turning the plaque different colors. The more plaque and tartar that exists in your mouth, the more likely you are to develop infections and severe inflammation that is consistent with periodontal disease.
5. Floss your teeth after brushing to keep your mouth healthy and treat minor forms of gum disease. If you have trouble using regular dental floss, try using flossers that have an easy-to-hold handle.
6. Rinse your mouth with a salt water rinse to reduce inflammation of your gums. Mix 1 tsp. table salt into a full 8 oz. glass of room temperature water.
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