Gum disease occurs when infection sets into the mouth, and if left untreated, may ruin your gum tissue and affect your teeth. Gingivitis arises when the gums become red and inflamed. Untreated gingivitis may lead to periodontitis, a condition that results in large pockets forming around the teeth. Periodontitis can spread below the gumline, affecting the tooth root and bone, and may lead to tooth loss.
Identification
The gums surround the teeth and cover the underlying bone of the jaw. Gum infections occur due to a buildup of plaque, a sticky substance that accumulates on the teeth. Without regular brushing and dental care, bacteria may accumulate on this plaque, causing an infection. Plaque eventually solidifies and causes tartar, and if this spreads below the gumline, a dentist must use a special procedure to remove the deposits.
Scaling
Scaling is a type of dental treatment that works to remove excess tartar from the teeth. Your dentist may use an ultrasonic machine to chip away tartar that has accumulated on your teeth before rinsing it away. Scaling involves removing plaque deposits on the tooth surface and below the gumline, at the root of the tooth. The goal of scaling is to reduce enough tartar buildup that gum disease will heal.
Significance
According to the American Academy of Periodontology, people who have low intakes of calcium and vitamin C may be more likely to develop gum disease. Calcium is important for bone density, and low levels may involve the bone of the jaw, affecting gum attachment. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that may help protect your mouth against gum disease. You can increase your intake of calcium and vitamin C by eating foods such as dairy products; dark, leafy vegetables and citrus fruits.
Considerations
By eating your recommended amount of vitamins and nutrients, you will support your body's health, improving circulation and strengthening bones and connective tissues, which will in turn positively affect your teeth and gums. Choose foods such as fruits, low-fat dairy, vegetables and whole grains, and avoid sugary snacks. Bacteria feed on sugar, and sticky sugars adhere to your teeth and can be difficult to remove. If you do choose a sugary snack, drink a glass of water afterward.
Follow-Up
Because scaling as a form of treatment for gum disease is a method of cleaning that goes deep below the gumline, your gums may be sensitive following the procedure. Until the gum disease resolves, you may have pain when eating hot or cold foods. Dr. Dan Peterson of Family Gentle Dental Care also recommends avoiding spicy foods and drinking eight glasses of water a day. You may want to eat soft foods that are easy to chew but provide protein and vitamins to help restore gum healing, such as eggs or yogurt.
References
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
- Simple Steps to Better Dental Health: Scaling and Root Planing
- American Academy of Periodontology: Nourish Your Smile with a Well-Balanced Diet
- Family Gentle Dental Care: Scaling and Root Planing
- North Dakota State University: You, Your Diet and Your Oral Health
