If you are experiencing swollen or tender gums, you might be in the early stages of periodontal (gum) disease. If you have persistent bad breath you may also have a medical condition along with gum disease. If left untreated, gum disease can cause major damage to the soft tissue and bone supporting your pearly whites, eventually resulting in possible tooth loss.
The culprit is bacteria, along with mucus in the mouth and food particles. This bacterial film (plaque) collects in the mouth and is usually removed during your daily brushing and flossing routine. Plaque that is not brushed away can harden into tartar which needs to be removed by your dentist using special tools. These tools scale the teeth and gums, and the area below the gum line. Tartar can form in as little as a day, so staying on top of it is of utmost importance, as excellent oral care begins at home!
Factors that may cause gum disease:
• Diabetes
• Unhealthy diet
• Your family history
• Smoking tobacco
• Stressful lifestyle
• Not brushing and flossing daily
• Dry mouth
Be sure to brush twice every day, and floss your teeth at least once every day. Try to limit sugary and starchy foods, especially sticky ones. At the office of Dr. John Blake, DDS. We can spot gum disease in the early stages so you won’t lose your teeth due to gum loss and infection.
Be proactive and schedule your next dental cleaning appointment so tartar doesn’t deprive you of your healthy smile by calling our caring staff at 248-693-5800.