When you begin learning about the details associated with gum disease, you will quickly find that this preventable issue is quite aggressive and even more complicated than you may have thought. As a result, patients often make common mistakes that either promote the development of this oral problem or that allow the issue to quickly flourish. Fortunately, we are ready to provide you with a quick rundown of common oversights, so you can do your best to keep your gum health in exceptional condition.
Mistake #1: Assuming You Don’t Have It
The very beginning stage of gum disease – known as gingivitis – is the only stage that we can cure and reverse, leaving you with gums free of periodontal disease. Once the disease advances beyond this stage, you will need to manage the problem for life. Unfortunately, gingivitis does not always present obvious symptoms, so patients assume it is okay to skip a dental checkup here and there. To protect yourself, remain dedicated to preventive visits, during which we will recognize a problem if it exists.
Mistake #2: Brushing More To Reverse It
If you notice that your gums appear a bit darker or inflamed, you may think to yourself that you simply need to brush more, floss more, brush harder, or make other attempts to improve dental hygiene. The truth is that once your gums become inflamed and gum disease takes hold, you need professional assistance or the disease will simply continue to advance and cause damage.
Mistake #3: Avoiding Periodontal Treatment
Once we identify gum disease, it is essential that you agree to treatment immediately. This oral health problem is aggressive, which means that neglecting the issue can quickly result in gum recession, loose teeth, missing teeth, and jaw damage.