If your dentist has treated you for an episode of gum disease, you’re not necessarily in the clear. Patients who have already experienced gum disease face a high risk of a relapse unless they are conscientious about getting professional follow-up care and practicing good oral hygiene.
Gum disease can lead to serious consequences for your oral health, and the conditions that contributed to your initial episode of gum disease can still be problematic unless you do something to change them.
To reduce your risk of gum disease relapse, you should closely adhere to the follow up care plan provided by your dentist. Keep to a rigorous oral hygiene regimen and visit the office regularly to be monitored for symptoms of the condition.
Risks Associated With Gum Disease
Gum disease occurs when oral bacteria attack the gum tissue and cause inflammation. Left unchecked, that inflammation can progress and seriously compromise your oral health, resulting in issues such as:
- Gum recession
- Tooth loss
- Bone loss
Gum disease also appears to have some sort of relationship with systemic health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and dementia. To preserve your oral health and your overall wellness, you should do everything possible to prevent a relapse.
Oral Hygiene Tips For Patients With History Of Gum Disease
There are a number of preventive measures that patients can take to reduce their risk of recurrent gum disease. Most of these steps would be incorporated into any daily oral hygiene routine. You should:
- Brush your teeth twice each day for two minutes at a time. Use a soft-bristled brush that is in good condition.
- Floss daily, ideally prior to one of your brushing sessions.
- If recommended, use an anti-bacterial mouthwash to keep oral bacteria in check.
- Limit your consumption of sweets, which provide a nutrition source for oral bacteria.
In addition to a robust home oral hygiene routine, you should see a professional dental provider on a regular schedule to be monitored for the symptoms of gum disease. You should also keep an eye out for concerning symptoms like redness, swelling or bleeding and seek treatment as needed.
If you have experienced gum disease in the past, you can take steps to prevent it in the future. Speak with our team at the office of Dr. David Kuban to make sure that you have an adequate plan in place to protect your oral health against the effects of gum disease.
