What To Know About Gum Disease
When patients visit our office for a routine hygiene examination and cleaning, we do more than look for tooth decay and clean their teeth. We also inspect their teeth, mouth and gums for signs of various diseases that can seriously compromise not only their oral health, but their overall health as well. One such disease we look for is gum disease. Gum disease affects about half of American adults and is also commonly referred to as gingivitis or periodontitis. It is an infection that occurs in the gums and along the gumline. Gum disease should be treated as soon as possible because it can lead to severe issues such as missing teeth and jawbone deterioration.
Warning Signs of Gum Disease
Unlike other dental issues, gum disease frequently remains undetected due to the lack of obvious signs, such as extreme discomfort. It is important to be mindful of any changes to your oral health. If you notice any of these warning signs, be sure to contact our office:
- Swollen or irritated gums
- Gums that are excessively red
- Bleeding gums when you brush your teeth
- Unexplained bad breath
- Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teethTeeth that are suddenly loose
How to Prevent Gum Disease
The best way to prevent gum disease is to maintain an oral hygiene routine that you follow daily. It is important to brush your teeth thoroughly for two minutes at least twice a day. It is also necessary to floss at least once a day to remove any lingering food and bacteria from between the teeth and along the gumline. Visiting our office for routine hygiene examinations is also recommended to remove any plaque buildup that is along the gumline. During these appointments, our team is able to thoroughly inspect your mouth for any signs of gum disease.
If you are located in the St. Paul, MN area and are noticing any of the warning signs mentioned above or if you have not visited our office in the past 6 months for a hygiene examination, call to schedule an appointment today. We look forward to seeing you soon!
