Do You Have Any Of These Gum Disease Warning Signs?
In addition to Valentine’s Day, there is something else we feel is important to celebrate this month — Gum Disease Awareness Month. February is recognized as Gum Disease Awareness Month in an effort to make the public aware of the prevalence of the disease and the lasting effects that it can have if left untreated. Gum disease affects more than half of American adults and often remains undetected. Read on to learn more about this common condition and the warning signs to know if you might be experiencing a problem.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a bacterial infection that is found in the gums. If not treated in a timely manner, the infection will continue to spread to the jawbone. During your oral hygiene examination, we check for gum disease and can catch any issues early and start treatment immediately. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may have periodontal disease:
- Persistent bad breath
- Swollen, red gums
- Bleeding gums
- Discomfort when chewing
- Tooth sensitivity
- Receding gums
- Changes to your bite
How to Prevent Gum Disease
The easiest way to prevent gum disease is to maintain a proper oral hygiene routine. We see most of our patients so infrequently during the year, so they are responsible for making sure that they are brushing and flossing their teeth properly. Failure to do so can not only lead to problems with decay but can also increase the risk of developing gum disease.
When teeth are not cleaned properly, harmful bacteria build up at the base of the teeth along the gumline, leading to an infection. If you know you are not caring for your teeth as well as you should, there is no time like the present to change your ways. Be sure that you are brushing for a minimum of two minutes twice a day and using dental floss daily. If you are unsure how to brush and floss properly, we would love to help you during your next appointment.
If you are concerned about the state of your gums or need a routine hygiene examination for yourself or a loved one, contact our office, which is located in Meeker, CO. We are also happy to help those in Craig and the surrounding area. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
