When the health of our gums suffers, the stability of our teeth is threatened. Just like the rest of your smile, your gums require routine care to stay healthy and avoid serious oral health issues. In today’s blog, we’re talking to our Astoria, NY, patients about protecting their gums.
Signs of Periodontal Trouble
Our gums keep our teeth in place and impact the appearance of our smile. Should you begin to notice redness, or if they feel sore, then you may need to talk to us. Gingivitis, also known as gum inflammation, could arise due to poor oral hygiene and without treatment, could lead to the onset of gum disease. Other signs of trouble include swelling, recession, and bleeding when brushing or flossing. As the disease grows more severe, the risks posed to your smile’s appearance and ability only increase.
Cleanings and Homecare
How do we avoid inflammation? Well, when we brush our teeth twice daily using a toothpaste with fluoride, and floss before bed every night, we prevent bacteria from breaking down stray food particles. This limits plaque buildup from accumulating, preventing gum inflammation. You should also see the dentist every six months for a cleaning, during which we completely remove all plaque to keep the smile healthy. If you do develop gum disease, understand that there is no cure and routine treatment is crucial to prevent the onset of the advanced stages of the disease.
Periodontitis
Without homecare and routine cleanings, gum disease may occur and eventually, lead to a higher risk of periodontitis. The advanced stage of the disease, periodontitis actually attacks the connective tissues between the teeth and gums, leading to adult tooth loss. In fact, gum disease is the number one cause of adult tooth loss. If you have any questions about protecting your gums, or if you think you need to undergo an exam, then contact our team today.
Do You Have Bleeding Gums?
Let us know when you notice changes to your gums, you may need preventive treatment. For more information, schedule a consultation with us by calling Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, in Astoria, NY, today at 718-728-8320.
