The Importance of Gum Care

Louisville, KY

When you think about maintaining your oral health, you probably focus on your teeth. You brush them, floss between them and have them cleaned regularly at your dental check ups. But you should also be vigilant about your gum health. Your Louisville dentist explains why, today on the blog.

Gum disease is an epidemic in the United States

Your gums are a crucial component of your mouth, and gum disease is one of the most widespread chronic diseases in the United States, affecting. This ailment affects approximately 42% of American adults over the age of 30.

Gum disease stems from a bacterial infection of your gum tissue. Bacteria builds up in your mouth, usually due to neglectful dental care, and forms into plaque—a sticky film that adheres to your gums and causes the infection.

The stages of gum disease

The initial stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. In this stage, any damage caused by gum disease can be remedied by seeing your dentist for a professional cleaning and strengthening your regimen of at-home dental care. Common symptoms of gingivitis include gums that are red, tender, inflamed, swollen or bleed easily. You also may experience chronic bad breath from the high quantity of bacteria in your mouth.

If not identified and treated, your gum disease progresses into a stage called periodontitis. By this point, gum disease has done permanent damage to your teeth and mouth. Pockets of bacteria form between your teeth and gums. These pockets spread and multiply, compounding the damage. Eventually, untreated periodontitis can cause loose teeth, bone deterioration, tooth loss, and a misaligned bite. This infection can even threaten your life; medical research has shown patients with periodontal disease are two to three times more likely to suffer a heart attack, stroke, or some other type of serious cardiovascular ailment.

You can lower your risk of gum disease

Each of us ultimately is responsible for our own health. You can and should take measures to lower your vulnerability to gum disease.

A recommended regimen of care includes:

Floss once per day at minimum, removing food particles and plaque that you can’t reach with a toothbrush.

Brush your teeth twice a day, the right way

Even the most diligent brushing won’t do as much good if you don’t use the right technique: using a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing with a circular motion, rather than brushing too hard.

Rinse

 Consider using an antiseptic mouthwash, which can help kill any bacteria left lingering in your mouth after you brush and floss.

Lifestyle changes

Moderate your consumption of sweets and other high-sugar foods and drinks. And, if you use tobacco in any form, please quit.

Gum disease treatment and prevention in Kentuckiana

Your regimen of gum disease prevention also should include making regular visits to your dentist once each six months. At Exceptional Dentistry, these appointments include a dental cleaning and a thorough examination of your teeth and mouth. If the signs of gum disease are detected or you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, we can treat your gum disease with our precise perio laser. We offer this treatment at each of our three locations, in Jeffersonville, Indiana, as well as Louisville in Kentucky.

Treatment is crucial if you have gum disease. Failing to address the problem will mean it only gets worse. Make an appointment at Exceptional Dentistry today. Just call (502) 423-7868 or complete our online contact form.