An unfortunate reality is that not everyone can afford to have dental insurance. Poor dental health has a negative effect on your overall health. An increased risk of heart disease and diabetes are serious health conditions that are linked to poor oral hygiene. If you suspect that you may have gum disease, you should immediately seek the help of a professional. However, sometimes this may not be an option. Continue reading for information on how to treat gum disease at home until you're able to seek the help of a dentist.
Signs of Gum Disease
Without regular dental check-ups, you won't know that you have gum disease until your condition is in its advanced stages. The warning signs that you may experience with this disease include gums that bleed when eating, brushing, and flossing because they are swollen and tender. You may also notice that your gums are receding. When this happens, your teeth look longer. If you notice sores in your mouth or pus in between your gums and teeth, then chances are you may have gum disease.
Home Treatment Options
The only way to cure gum disease is to seek professional treatment. However, to help lessen your symptoms and reduce chances of it advancing, there are things you can do at home. If you're not already doing it, make certain you brush and floss at least twice a day. This will help reduce the amount of plaque buildup on your teeth. As you may know, plaque buildup is usually the cause of gum disease. Rinse your mouth with a mouthwash that's used to treat gingivitis. If you have a primary care physician, ask for a prescription for an antimicrobial mouth rinse. . Lastly, avoid sugary foods and drinks. They contributes to tooth decay.
Reduced Rate Dental Care Options
The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances are of saving your teeth and health. There are many options available for people without dental insurance; it will just take a little research. For example, dental schools have clinics so that its students can gain practical experience performing various dental procedures. These procedures are done under the supervision of an experienced license dentist at a reduced rate. Taking into account the oral health situation in the country, Government of India has initiated a National Oral Health Programme to provide integrated, comprehensive oral health care in the existing health care facilities.
Gum disease is a dental issue that can affect anyone at any age. If left untreated, it can become a very serious issue. Learn more about how to treat gum disease in Colgate's Oral Care resources.
