Your gums are one of the most important parts of your mouth. They protect your jaw and your teeth. Just like your teeth, your gums require regular attention and care. Having poor gum health can impact not only your oral health but also your physical health. Seeking out periodontal help can protect your gums from developing infections, sensitivity, and other common issues. Protecting your gums is a crucial part of a healthy smile. Caring for your gums can help you avoid a number of health issues in the future. No one is immune to developing gum disease. However, it is entirely preventable with good oral health habits. Take some time to learn about how good oral care can help protect your gums from needing restorative dental services like periodontal care.
Signs of Gum Disease
Gum disease develops when plaque and build up begin to form along the gumline of the mouth. The bacteria make a home in the gums and an infection eventually forms. Millions of Americans deal with periodontal problems every year. Gum disease shows itself in a number of ways. It is important to track when you develop gum issues in order to tell your dentist about the issues you are facing when caring for your gums. Some of the most common visible signs of gingivitis are inflammation, tenderness, swollen gums. They also may have a tendency to bleed when you brush or floss. This damage is not permanent and proper treatment can undo the damage of the infection. A more serious form of gum disease is periodontitis.
While gingivitis affects primarily the gum tissue, periodontitis reaches much deeper. It can affect the bones that connect to your teeth that keep them in place. If this stage of gum disease is left unchecked, it can cause your teeth to weaken. It is not uncommon for a dentist to remove teeth that have been severely impacted by advanced periodontitis. You may also need laser gum recontouring to undo the damage done.
Some of the most common signs of gum disease include:
- Consistently bad breath or taste
- Loose permanent teeth
- Gums bleed easily
- Receding gum line
Ways To Prevent Gum Disease
Doctors have found ways to avoid gum disease and keep your smile healthy. Caring for your gums starts with good oral hygiene. Flossing at least once per day can remove plaque and build up between your teeth. These are spots that your toothbrush alone cannot reach. Regular dental cleanings are extremely beneficial to your oral health as well. Dentists know how to spot gum disease early and can guide you to take the proper steps for treatment.
Smoking has been linked to gum disease in the past. Smoking weakens your immune system and increases your risk of infection. It also makes it harder for your gums to heal once they are damaged. Another way to prevent gum disease from developing is to use fluoride toothpaste. It can help strengthen your teeth as well as prevent plaque from destroying your gums.
Get Periodontal Help From Marcus Black DDS
Your gums are important. People tend to underestimate just how beneficial caring for your gums can be to your oral health and your physical health. Marcus Black DDS has a number of services to help you take care of your teeth and protect your smile. Some of the services we offer include:
- Professional Teeth Whitening
- No-Prep Veneers
- Preventive Dentistry Services
- Wisdom Teeth Extraction
- Dental Fillings
If you believe you are dealing with the early stages of gum disease, help is available. Call 479.464.0900 to speak to a dental professional about treatment options. Start caring for your gums the right way today.
