You know that brushing your teeth and regular dental care is vital for keeping your teeth healthy. With the right prevention, you can help to prevent tooth loss by reducing your risk for tooth decay. Did you know that there is another treat that can harm your oral health? Gum disease is an infection that develops in the gingival tissue. With your gums playing a vital role in protecting your teeth and general health from complications, it is essential that you take the time to keep them healthy. At the first sign of an infection, it is time to call your dentist in East Longmeadow.
What is Gum Disease?
Your gingival tissue provides a protective seal around the base of your teeth to hold them in place. With the right oral hygiene habits, your gums will stay healthy to protect your smile. Unfortunately, many people skip flossing, which is vital to preventing the infection. As a result, it is estimated that 50% of adults have gum disease.
When proper oral hygiene habits are not maintained, bacteria will accumulate in tartar that has formed around the gum line. Over time, this will cause the gum tissue to pull away from your teeth, causing the roots and supporting structures to be destroyed by the bacteria.
When the infection is found early, it can be treated quickly without causing any long-term damage. Unfortunately, many fail to recognize the early warning signs, causing it to reach advanced stages. If this occurs, tooth loss is likely if there is not an aggressive treatment plan in place.
The bacteria responsible for the infection can enter your bloodstream, wreaking havoc on your oral health. Over time, you can develop serious health complications, like heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, respiratory infections, and an increased risk for pancreatic cancer.
Do I Have Gum Disease?
The key to restoring your oral health is to catch the infection during it’s earliest stage, known as gingivitis. You will see red, swollen, or bleeding gingival tissue. It is also common to have bad breath. As the infection progresses, you will start to see more serious complications develop, such as:
- Gum recession
- Tooth sensitivity
- Loose teeth
- Chronic bad breath
- Change to your bite
Can I Prevent Gum Disease?
Although gum disease is common, it can easily be avoided with the right oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste for two minutes each session. Before going to bed, floss in between each tooth. In addition to your home care, visit your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.
Protect Your Gum Health
While you work to reduce your risk of tooth decay, take the time to keep your gums healthy.
About EMA Dental
At EMA Dental, we provide complete dental care to patients of all ages. We offer the solutions you need to keep your teeth and gums healthy while also quickly restoring your oral health if an issue develops. With an individualized approach, we will help you reach and maintain your oral health goals. If it has been more than six months since your last dental appointment, contact our office today to schedule your next visit.