Truth About Gum Disease
By Regency Dental Group 3 min read
It seems like we hear about the problems surrounding gum disease everywhere we go, from the covers of health magazines to television and radio commercials. There are specially-formulated mouthwashes and toothpastes on the market that promise to fight the dreaded condition, but what exactly is gum disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, varies from simple gum inflammation to severe cases which can lead to damaged soft tissue and bone. In a worst case situation, you could lose teeth as the supporting ligaments and bones could be damaged.
Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque on teeth and along the gum line. Additional bacteria can easily get caught in the pockets between the gums and teeth which can result in infection called gingivitis.
What are the signs of gum disease?
•Bad breath that doesn't go away after brushing
•Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
•Tender, swollen, red or bleeding gums
•Loose teeth
•Recurring mouth sores
Best ways to prevent gum disease
1. Regular dental visits
Visit your dentist at least twice a year for a checkup and professional cleaning. Not only do regular cleanings freshen your breath and brighten your smile, they help preserve long-term oral health.
2. Choose the right tools
Most dentists recommend you use a medium or hard toothbrush if you have healthy gums and teeth. Young people, elderly and people with sensitive teeth should stick with a soft brush to avoid irritation. For superior cleaning results, many desists recommend a high-quality electric toothbrush. Also be sure to select a toothpaste formula that meets your personal oral hygiene needs and is gentle on your teeth and gums.
3. Vigilance
Now that you have the right tools, make the commitment to daily dental health by brushing after meals and flossing once a day. A good mouthwash will help control germs and many brands offer the benefits of added fluoride.
4. Don't hesitate to talk to your dentist
You don't have to wait until your regular dental visit to discuss concerns. If you have consistently swollen gums, toothaches or facial pain, contact your dentist right away. A quick visit may help eliminate further problems down the road.
5. Overall health
Your overall health also has an impact on your gums. Experts recommend you eat a healthy diet high in calcium and low in added sugars. Fresh fruits and vegetables are a must. According to studies, obese people are said to suffer from more dental problems so try to keep yourself active. And try to reduce stress levels as anxiety can make it harder to fight off infections to include periodontal disease.
The good news
The best news is that gum disease is almost entirely preventable with good oral hygiene and it can be remedied if caught early enough. We can thoroughly clean and treat your teeth and gumline to keep your mouth healthy.
Please contact Cambridge Family Dentistry for a free consultation if you have any questions or concerns regarding the diagnosis and/or treatment of gum disease. You can speak to one of our friendly staff members anytime to learn more about our clinic, ask a question or schedule an appointment. Please contact us by calling: (316) 687-2110 or toll-free (877) 687-2110. We look forward to meeting you. The Cambridge Family Dentistry clinic is located at 2020 N. Webb Road in Wichita, Kansas http://www.cambridgefamilydentists.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8628193
This article was republished from a syndicated source and is provided for general education. It does not necessarily reflect the treatment philosophy of Regency Dental Group.
This article is general information, not dental or medical advice, and does not replace an examination. If you have a dental concern, call (707) 453-1776. For a medical emergency, call 911.
