Caring for your gums is an essential part of oral health. While yes, you do want your teeth to be clean and cavity-free, your gums are important too. They not only help secure your teeth in place, but they also protect their roots from damage and decay. Thus, it is imperative that you don’t just brush your teeth twice daily, but that you also floss between them at least once a day. This will help clean the areas your toothbrush can’t reach as well as keep dangerous bacteria away from your gums. Neglecting to care for your gums can lead to serious problems like gingivitis and periodontitis. Here’s the lowdown on these diseases, and the warning signs that you could have one.
What Causes Gum Disease?
The gum diseases gingivitis and periodontitis are caused by bacteria that infiltrate the gums at the base of the tooth. These dangerous little organisms can wreak havoc on your gum tissue, causing inflammation and sensitivity. Left untreated, they can lead to gum deterioration, tooth loss, and even bone degradation. That’s why brushing and flossing them away on a regular basis is such an important step in safeguarding your oral health.
What are the Warning Signs of Gingivitis?
An estimated 50 percent of American’s have gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal disease. Gingivitis is reversible; however, many people don’t even realize they have it. Some warning signs to look out for include:
- Bright red or dark red gums, or darker than usual gums
- Swollen, puffy gums
- Gums that bleed when flossed or brushing your teeth
- Tender gums
- Bad breath
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist at once. While you can still prevent periodontitis in its early stages, once you have it, there is no cure.
Remember, gum disease is preventable with proper oral hygiene, however once it advances to periodontitis, you could be at risk of losing gum tissue, teeth, and even your jawbone. Protect your teeth from gingivitis by seeking help if you notice any of these important warning signs.
About Our Practice
At Legacy Dentistry we strive to be completely transparent about your oral health. We believe in operating with integrity and honesty, and we’ll never recommend a service you don’t need. We work hard to treat each patient as an individual, and to customize their care to their specific needs.
To schedule an appointment to discuss your gum health, please visit our website or call us today at 972-723-1148.