Protecting Your Gum Health From Home

Routine home care isn’t just about avoiding cavities or keeping your teeth bright. You also need to think about your gums. Not only do they frame the appearance of your smile, but they ensure a stable and healthy smile. In today’s blog, your Ankeny, IA, dentist is looking at what you can do safeguard your periodontal health from home.

The Onset of Gum Disease

How does gum disease form in the first place? Factors vary, but the issue always starts with gum inflammation, also known as gingivitis. When our gums become inflamed, this could eventually cause them to pull away from the teeth and form exposed pockets, which bacteria enter to cause the onset of periodontal disease. The causes of inflammation could include tobacco use, the use of certain medications, inflammatory illnesses, and a family history of periodontal problems. The most common factor is plaque buildup, which forms when we don’t brush and floss properly and when we eat lots of sugary food, which feed harm bacteria and cause plaque to accumulate.

Better Brushing and Flossing Habits

First, try to eat healthier foods. Cutting back on sugary foods and drinks prevents you from leaving behind particles for bacteria to consume. You also need to brush and floss, as this removes food particles from the smile and limits the severity of plaque until we can see you for a cleaning, a process that allows us to completely remove all buildup. You should brush when you wake up and again before bed for two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste.

Possible Signs of Trouble

Warning signs may include sore, red gums that bleed easily! If you experience these issues, then let us know. Starting May 27^th, our team is excited to open our doors and resume regular services again. Which means we can address your periodontal issues with a deep cleaning and other periodontal treatments, restoring health to your smile and managing gum disease. Treatment is important because unless addressed, gum disease could reach a more advanced stage known as periodontitis. At this stage, the tissue connecting your teeth and gums could become severed, leading to a greater risk of adult tooth loss! If you have any questions about avowing gum issues from home, or about scheduling a visit at the end of May, then contact our team today to learn more.

Do You Have Questions About Periodontal Issues?

Routine care is crucial for safeguarding the health of your teeth and gums from home. To learn more about improving gum health, then please schedule an appointment by calling Peddicord Family Dentistry in Ankeny, IA, today at (515) 963-3339. We also proudly serve patients of all ages who live in Bondurant, Polk City, and all surrounding communities.