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Gums are as important to the health of your smile as your teeth. Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, affects over 64 million Americans. Luckily, visiting a dentist and taking proper measures at home help you avoid this uncomfortable condition. Learn more about it in the guide below to stay healthy.

Common Causes of Periodontal Disease

This condition is most often caused by poor dental hygiene. Bacteria build up in the mouth without daily cleaning and biannual dental visits, forming plaque and tartar. The sticky film collects along the gumline, causing irritation and inflammation. Tartar, a harder type of plaque, further contributes to gum irritation.

A few factors may make periodontitis more likely, such as smoking and hormonal changes from pregnancy or menopause. Diseases that affect the immune system, such as cancer and diabetes, also make people more susceptible to infection.

Common Signs of Periodontal Disease

dentistGingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease, leading to red, swollen, and bleeding gums. The condition is reversible with proper dental care (outlined below).

Without treatment, the bacteria continue attacking the gumline. Over time, the soft tissue may start pulling away from the tooth roots, forming air pockets between the gums and teeth.

How to Keep Your Gums Healthy

Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes using a soft-bristled brush. Be gentle, as aggressive brushing can irritate the soft tissue. Floss once daily, hugging each tooth in a “C” shape to remove bacteria and food particles from the gumline.

Drink about half a gallon of water per day to boost saliva production. Saliva neutralizes mouth acids and helps dislodge food particles naturally. Crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples and celery, also naturally clean the teeth. Avoid refined grains and sugary foods, which contain bacteria that speed up plaque accumulation.

See your dentist every six months for deep teeth cleanings. Only professional cleanings can remove hard tartar. Your dentist may also recommend additional oral health measures if you have gingivitis, such as rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash.

 

Make an appointment with Gladstein Dental Center if it’s time for your next teeth cleaning. The dental practice has served the downtown area of New Britain, CT, since 1983. They work closely with patients and their insurance providers to ensure they secure the most affordable services possible. Call (860) 223-1162 to schedule an appointment, or learn more about their work online. Like the Facebook page for additional dental health tips.

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