What Asheville area patients need to know about gum infection

It is common knowledge that patients of all ages in the Asheville area should take good care of their smile between dental visits with Dr. Christopher Port. At the Family Dental Health of South Asheville, our team is committed to the health and wellness of smiles, but the dental health habits that occur between appointments are just as important. By brushing, flossing, and maintaining regular recall visits, patients can keep their smile free from infection and decay. Gum disease is an infection that occurs due to poor oral health, as well as dental decay, which is caused by the inability to remove plaque and tartar from the smile.

Gum disease, also known to dental professionals as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums and bone. It starts as gingivitis, the earliest stage. At this point, the condition can be treated and reversed. However, if ignored, it can continue to get worse and result in irreversible damage to the smile. Gingivitis is known as the point where the gums become red, swollen, and inflamed. They may also bleed when brushing and flossing. This is not normal and should be addressed as soon as possible with the dentist at Family Dental Health of South Asheville. Dr. Christopher Port will perform a thorough physical examination, which will include x-rays to check the status of the bone structure underneath the gum tissue. This is done to look for signs of further infection and to check for areas of decay. All of this can be handled in one visit.

To treat infection, patients will undergo a thorough cleaning. Later stages will require scaling and root planing during which the hygienist will clean all the surfaces of the teeth, including the roots. Patients may also go on antibiotics to help clear the infection, and are educated on ways to maintain their dental health to avoid future problems. This may include better knowledge regarding how to properly floss, which toothpastes are most appropriate, and how to handle concerns between dental visits. Patients may also be required to make more dental visits during this time of healing to ensure the health of their smile is improving.