Your Oral Health Could Be In Jeopardy!
We feel that it is important for patients to understand the seriousness of caring for and being mindful of their oral health. Because we only see many of our patients twice a year, we want them to know and understand the signs that their oral health might be struggling. The majority of patients think that discomfort and pain is the only sign that there is a problem with their oral health. While that is a major warning sign that would indicate a problem with decay, there is another serious condition that affects approximately half of American adults, and the warning signs to this disease are less noticeable. Interested in learning more? Continue reading to learn more about this common disease and its warning signs.
Signs Your Periodontal Health is Struggling
Aside from tooth decay, there is another common dental issue that affects approximately half of American adults — periodontal disease, also commonly known as gum disease. Periodontal disease is a condition that causes inflammation and an infection in the gums. Unfortunately, the warning signs are not always as obvious as other conditions such as tooth decay. Warning signs for gum disease can include gums that:
- Bleed easily when brushing and flossing
- Appear red and puffy
- Feel sensitive or irritated
- Look as though they are shrinking away from the teeth
The Best Ways to Assist in Proper Periodontal Health
There are two simple steps you can take to decrease the likelihood of developing serious periodontal issues. The first is to maintain routine oral hygiene examinations in our office. During these examinations, we not only remove any buildup on the teeth and along the gumline, but we are also able to diagnose any issues with the gums in the early stages and recommend treatment. Early detection is the best way to prevent serious problems from developing.
The other step that can be taken to assist with periodontal health is to maintain a proper and thorough oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing your teeth for two minutes a minimum of twice a day as well as using dental floss daily. Dental floss helps to remove lingering food and bacteria that remain between the teeth and along the gumline.
If you have any questions about the state of your oral health, worried you may be suffering from periodontal issues, or have not visited our office in some time for a routine examination, we can help! Be sure to contact our office located in Bowie, MD to schedule an appointment.
