We focus so much energy on our teeth that we tend to forget about our gums
In honor of National Gum Care Month, Pure Dental wants to encourage the health of all their patients with some educational information about oral care and gum disease.
GUM DISEASE
Gum disease – or periodontal disease – is a long-term infection in your gums that if left undiagnosed and untreated results in loss of gum tissue, the underlying bone, and eventually loss of your teeth in the infected areas. Over 80% of Americans suffer from periodontal disease-inflicted damage to their gums, teeth, and surrounding bone by the age of 45.
EARLY SIGNS OF GUM DISEASE ARE:
• Red or swollen gums
• Gums are tender to the touch, or hot / cold
• Gum noticeably receding from teeth
• Bleeding easily from brushing or flossing
• Changes in your bite
HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR MOUTH AND PREVENT GUM DISEASE
- Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Sticky plaque builds up on the teeth continually, and if left there it quickly develops into tartar, a hard substance that can only be removed by a professional. Both plaque and tartar contribute to gum disease.
- Floss regularly. Regularly, in this instance, should be interpreted as “every day”. Brushing removes plaque from your teeth, but only floss can clean below the gum line.
- Use mouthwash to remove small particles and reduce plaque. Mouthwash is no substitute for brushing and flossing, but when used alongside other healthy habits it can freshen breath, eliminate bacteria, and keep teeth strong.
- Floss with water. A water irrigator, also known as an oral irrigator or a dental water jet, is a device that shoots a stream of water between the teeth to remove plaque and bacteria. Add it to your morning routine for a really fresh, deep cleaning.
- Eat a nutritious diet. A healthy, balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and nutrients and low in sugar can boost the immune system and help your body fight off harmful bacteria, inflammation and, infection. If you want to keep your teeth white, don’t forget to eat your greens!
- Visit your dentist every six months for a good cleaning. He or she can also assess the health of your teeth and gums and refer you to a periodontist if you are experiencing any problems. Early treatment of gum disease is important. Left unchecked, it can destroy teeth, gums, bones, and connective tissue, and contribute a variety of health problems. So make sure to visit a dentist office at least twice a year.
Plaque is the primary cause of gum disease and bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons that irritate the gums. They may cause them to turn red, swell, and bleed easily. Plaque can also harden into a rough, porous substance known as calculus – or tartar. This can occur both above and below the gum line. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that hold teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth and bone loss. Pure Dental will make sure you leave their office with plaque and tartar free teeth and the knowledge and tools to help keep your smile disease-free.
The health of your gums plays a key role in your overall physical health. You can prevent periodontal disease with regular checkups and of course with daily brushing and flossing. If you notice your gums are red or bleeding easily, call us at 631 246-4443 today for a periodontal checkup and cleaning.
