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Posted on 10/25/2019 by Roberta Cerveny, DDS |
 Dental implants are one of the best restoration options to help you deal with tooth loss. Unfortunately, some people unwisely believe that once they have dental implants, they no longer need to keep up with their dental hygiene routine. Even with replacement teeth in the form of implants, your mouth is still at risk for gum disease without proper care. What is Gum Disease?Gum disease is an infection of the soft tissues that hold your teeth in place. It is typically caused by poor oral hygiene, which allows plaque to build up onto the teeth and harden. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, and it involves gum inflammation caused by plaque buildup. Left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, a severe form of the disease when the gums and bone pull away from teeth to create pockets. Those spaces collect debris and may become infected.What Are the Signs of Gum Disease?With dental implants, you can see many of the same symptoms of gum disease as you would with natural teeth. They include swollen and red gums, gums that bleed easily, persistent bad breath, painful chewing, loose teeth, or receding gums. Your dental implants and smile may not look the same.How Do You Prevent Gum Disease?While we have several treatment options available to help deal with the symptoms of gum disease, the best thing to do is to prevent it before it starts. A good routine of brushing your teeth and flossing around natural teeth is essential to prevent this disease and future damage.In addition to a good oral hygiene routine, you also need to see us regularly for your dental checkups. We will ensure that your gums are healthy and will look for signs of oral cancer and other oral health problems. Call us today to set up your next appointment. |