Gum diseases, or periodontal diseases are serious health concerns, and if you think you may have a gum disease, please see your dentist immediately. With that in mind let’s have a look at what the most common signs of gum disease are. The most frequent or common signs of gum disease are inflammation on a daily or consistent basis.

To clarify even further; puffiness, swelling, increased sensitivity, (even while eating and drinking) or even bleeding of the gums, especially just after brushing your teeth. Sometimes although a puffiness or swelling may not manifest itself, you may just feel soreness or an irritation/ sensitivity in your gums that seems to be always present, and was not there before.

Another indicator to look for is the color of your gums; they should be a relatively consistent pink color. Be aware that if these symptoms present themselves on a consistent basis, (not just occasionally), you need to see your dentist as soon as you possibly can.

What is the main cause of gum disease, and how can it be prevented?

Gum disease results from a build-up of plaque on the teeth and gums, or more specifically the bacteria in plaque. If left unchecked, the plaque bacteria will attack the gums and the bone underneath them, often resulting in bone loss that leads to tooth loss as time progresses.

Plaque build -up is also very detrimental to the health of your other major organs; heart, kidney, liver etc., so it is essential that proper gum and tooth care is practiced. Really, periodontal disease is bad news, and as you age it can cause serious problems for you, so pay attention to consistent aches and swelling in the gums.

Preventing gum disease is easy; here’s how

The main components in assessing and preventing the onset of gum disease are as follows:

See your dentist at least two times a year, more if it is determined by you and your dentist that more frequent visits are necessary. Make sure to have your teeth cleaned every time you see your dentist, and tell her if you are experiencing ANY symptoms of possible gum disease

Brush your teeth regularly, no less than two times a day, and if you can, three times a day. Especially after meals. Take the time to learn how to brush your teeth correctly; there is definitely a right way, and a wrong way and you need to know the difference. Ask a dentist about the best toothbrushes available, and buy them.

Floss your teeth regularly, at least once a day. Generally it is best to floss at night before you go to bed, if you plan to floss only once a day. If you are a happy two times a day flosser, morning and night are the best times. Always use un-waxed floss, and do not floss so aggressively that you make your gums bleed, really; we are trying to avoid that. Be good to your mouth and teeth, they are going to be with you for your whole life.

To schedule your preventive dental appointment and teeth cleaning, please call our Staten Island Dental Office at (718) 494-2200 or contact us online: https://drmarianadds.com/contact-us/