Gum Disease Awareness
Aside from Valentine’s Day, there is another special reason we love February — it’s Gum Disease Awareness Month. This is important because it is a time when we can make our patients aware of the prevalence of the disease and the effects it can have on their oral health if left untreated. Did you know that approximately half of the American adult population is affected by gum disease? This means that you or a friend or family member has been or will be affected at some point. It is important to know how to prevent this disease and the warning signs. Read on to learn more.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a serious gum infection accompanied by inflammation caused by bacterial growth along the gumline and around the base of the tooth. Unfortunately, there are not many warning signs, so it is important to be aware of any changes in your oral health. Look out for these changes that may indicate a problem:
- Bleeding gums
- Sensitive teeth
- Swollen and red gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums
- Teeth that are loose
Ways to Prevent Gum Disease
The best way to prevent gum disease is to develop an oral hygiene routine and maintain it throughout the year. We only see you in our office about twice a year, which means that cleaning your teeth properly is mostly your responsibility. When you do not thoroughly brush and floss your teeth, it can lead to an increase in bacteria and plaque in your mouth. Over time, this can lead to the development of gum disease. Make it a habit to brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day. Don’t forget to use dental floss daily as well.
Another excellent way to prevent gum disease is to maintain your routine oral hygiene examinations and cleaning appointments. During these visits, we remove any lingering plaque from your teeth and around the gumline. We can also detect if you are in the early stages of gum disease and make a treatment recommendation.
If you are concerned about the state of your gums, notice any of the warning signs mentioned above, or need a hygiene examination, be sure to contact our office, which is located in Cincinnati, OH, to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon!