The mouth’s health is not only determined by the straightness of the teeth and the brightness of a smile. The gums are an essential part of it too. Despite being cavity-free and having pearliest teeth in town, it does not mean that the person is immune to gum disease. Since the condition is usually painless, the majority of people do not actually know that there is something wrong with their gums.
Gum disease starts when there are buildups of plaque along and below the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film-like substance filled with bacteria that can cause infections. Unfortunately, these infections can harm the gum and bone which can lead to the formation of gum disease and tooth decay. Aside from these, plaque can also cause gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease. If left neglected, gingivitis will progress into periodontitis—a more severe form of gum disease. Fortunately, this is where the Periodontal Disease Diagnosis we offer at Pawhuska Dental come in handy! With the help of the said service, it will be easier for dentists to determine the stage of gum disease so that the necessary procedures will be performed.
But since prevention is always better than cure, here are a few tips to help keep the gums in tip-top shape:
- Flossing must be done at least once a day. According to the American Dental Association, this will help remove plaque and food debris that is beyond the reach of toothbrush bristles. The time for flossing does not matter; whether it is done in the morning, night, or after lunchtime, it’s fine as long as it’s performed.
- If there is another reason for people to stop smoking, it’s because the habit is strongly associated with the onset of gum disease. In order to keep gums healthy, people must quit smoking. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), smoking weakens the immune system which makes it harder to combat gum infection. Plus, smoking makes it difficult for the soft tissues to heal once they’ve been damaged.
- Brushing the teeth after every meal is a must. The practice removes the food particles and plaque trapped between the teeth and gums. Aside from the teeth, the tongue should also be scrubbed because it can harbor bacteria. It is recommended to use a toothbrush with soft bristles that fit comfortably in the mouth.
The earliest signs of gum disease are hard to notice. Here at Pawhuska Dental, we offer Periodontal Disease Diagnosis in Pawhuska, OK to give you a thorough examination. Our staff is professionally trained to spot the earliest signs of gum disease. Find us at 201 W Main St., Pawhuska, OK 74056 to schedule an appointment!