September is National Gum Care Month, and dentists are taking this time to emphasize the importance of proper dental care to their patients. Healthy gums keep your teeth in place and protect against decay. Here, Kathleen Kujiraoka, DDS, in Kaneohe, HI, explains how to recognize signs of declining gum health as well as which steps you can take to correct any problems.

Signs of Gum Disease

The early stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. This condition is generally characterized by swollen gums prone to bleeding while brushing. Bad breath may also occur, a result of an accumulation of plaque and bacteria. Gum tissue may also begin to recede at this stage, which can create pockets of tissue where food particles get stuck and feed oral bacteria. At this point, gum disease is still reversible, so seek timely dental care.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

Your best defense against gum disease is at your dentist’s office. A bi-annual teeth cleaning will remove plaque from your teeth, which helps keep decay at bay. Your dentist also has the tools to remove tartar, which is hardened plaque.

At home, brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Flossing is especially necessary to prevent plaque buildup along the gum line. Use a gentle approach when flossing to prevent damage to your gums, but clean all sides of your teeth thoroughly.

If you’ve experienced the above symptoms, consult Kaneohe’s family dentist Kathleen Kujiraoka, DDS, about proper gum care. Along with preventative measures like cleanings and exams, her team also performs general and cosmetic procedures like dental implants, crowns, and teeth whitening. Schedule an appointment today by calling (808) 235-2121. You can also visit the website for more on their services.