In order for patients in the Greenwood, SC area to avoid conditions such as gingivitis, they must take proper care of their smile. When the condition occurs, it may require treatment from a dental professional.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. It can be caused by poor oral care. When patients maintain their regular examinations with a dental professional, they can reduce the risk of developing this condition. It is important for patients to visit their dentist regularly to keep gingivitis from developing or progressing into more severe stages.
Dr. Christopher T. Griffin helps area patients in maintaining healthy smiles. Not only can he provide preventative care, but he can also assist patients who have developed this condition and need treatment.
In most cases, treatment consists a thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums. This is an in-office procedure called scaling and root planing. During this treatment, we can remove all of the plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and gum tissue to help restore the health of the smile. This may be combined with at-home treatment and frequent appointments to monitor the condition and ensure that patients are maintaining their oral hygiene properly to keep the condition from returning. Patients may be educated on methods of keeping their dental health at its best with special mouthwashes or electric toothbrushes. Brushing and flossing should be done after every meal to remove food particles, sugars, and acids from the surfaces of the mouth.
There are complications that can arise for patients who do not treat their gingivitis as early as possible. The condition may continue to develop into periodontitis, which is the loss of bone, gum tissue, and even natural teeth if left untreated. Periodontitis is irreversible, so it should not be taken lightly.