Your periodontal health – also known as your gum health – is just as important as the health of your teeth. Certain kinds of bacteria in your mouth irritate and infect your gums, causing inflammation and disease.
Swelling, tenderness, and bleeding are common warning signs of gingivitis, or early-stage gum disease. If caught early, gingivitis can often be reversed. But if left untreated, it will advance into severe periodontitis. This condition can lead to tooth loss and deterioration of the jawbone.
To keep your gums healthy, follow these tips!
- Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
- Floss Every Day
- Don’t Smoke or Use Tobacco Products
- Visit the Dentist Every 6 Months
This basic oral hygiene routine is essential to healthy gums. For the best results, brush at least twice every day for two minutes each time with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Medium and firm bristles can irritate your gums. Additionally, replace your brush every 3-4 months or when the bristles become frayed.
Don’t forget about flossing once a day! Many people neglect flossing, which increases their risk of gum disease. Flossing removes plaque and food debris from between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. Don’t yank or saw the floss against your gums. Instead, gently scrape between each tooth using a C-shape and a clean section of floss for each tooth.
Smoking is one of the leading causes of gum disease. This is because tobacco depresses the immune system and makes it harder to heal. If you smoke and want to improve your gum health (and your overall health), consider quitting ASAP!
Even if you maintain great oral hygiene at home, you still need professional cleanings and exams at least twice a year. With our special tools and expertise, we remove hardened plaque (called tartar) and check for any problems, like oral cancer and early signs of gum disease that aren’t obvious to you.
Periodontal Care in Westerville, OH
If you notice symptoms of gum disease like swelling, bleeding, or gum recession, please contact us today to schedule an appointment at our office. Our dentists, Dr. Abidin and Dr. Cao, are committed to providing high-quality, affordable dental care to every patient. They can determine the right treatment option (such as antibiotics or a deep cleaning) that will get your periodontal health back on track.