Refresh Your Gumline, Aid Your Health

The recession of the gums is a very common concern for American patients. Nearly half of all Americans over the age of 30 have some form of periodontal disease, the term for the infection of the gum tissue. This can cause this matter to pull back from the tooth, eventually exposing the structure of the root below. When the bacteria begin to form a colony inside the tooth itself, it can result in the necessity for a root canal procedure.

We would like to avoid this surgery if possible, so before it comes to that, please speak with your oral health provider about the possibility of restoring your natural gumline using a periodontal graft. Today, your Gary, IN dentist explains how by renewing this biological structure, you can solidify your oral health. Not only that, but it can prevent these invaders from reaching your bloodstream!

Proper Maintenance Is Key

It is important to maintain a solid daily oral health regimen, and not only for your enamel. Patients can focus on the teeth, while ignoring the other forms of tissue that exist within the mouth. Periodontal tissue is a prime example of this, as an area that people seem to take for granted.

Floss daily, and before you brush your teeth, in order to maximize your effectiveness. And use an oral rinse of your choosing, with or without alcohol. The action of swishing itself does a lot in removing harmful germs from your mouth. And if you get up in the middle of the night for a snack, be sure to rebrush before going back to bed. Leaving invaders in your mouth for hours is a recipe for disaster!

Extra Help

For those who have already begun to experience recession, a gum graft is your likely solution. This involves the physical movement and attachment of periodontal tissue. There are two forms that we will go over now.

The first is called a free gingival graft, and it begins with the removal of infected tissue from the site. Then the healthy matter is stretched to a natural level and adhered to the tooth. This is a simple procedure that may seem a little bit more frightening than it is. It is a very common operation that is performed daily.

If there is not enough tissue to be able to cover the necessary area, your dentist will identify a transplant site. This usually comes from the roof of the mouth, or the soft palate. It is adhered in much the same way, simply from a fully separate location.

Both of these maneuvers require a week-long soft diet, but you should be able to get back to work relatively quickly. Always discuss your plan with your healthcare provider.

ABOUT YOUR GARY, IN, DENTIST:

As a native of northwest Indiana, Nicholas Cain, DDS, is dedicated to providing excellent general, preventive, and family dentistry services to the community that raised him, welcoming patients from Gary, Miller, Miller Beach, and all surrounding areas. To schedule your appointment, call Healthy Smiles in Gary, IN, today at 219-938-2637. You can also email our office at info@healthysmilesnwi.com.