Could You Be Susceptible to Gum Disease?

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Could You Be Susceptible to Gum Disease?Ever wondered if your gums are as healthy as they could be? While it’s often easy to see signs of wear or damage on the teeth, it can be simple to overlook the gums, when it comes to the smile. This is likely why millions of Americans are believed to struggle with gingivitis, the first stage of the chronic condition known as gum disease. Many do so unknowingly, too, allowing the condition to worsen with time. To protect your whole smile, including your precious gum tissue, make sure you are taking care of your whole smile through proper preventive dental care.

Are You Taking Proper Preventive Care of Your Smile?

Caring for your smile doesn’t have to feel time consuming or complicated. Good dental hygiene should simply include both brushing and flossing, to keep your teeth and gums clean and free from harmful and acidic tartar buildup.

When you brush, you should use a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste, and you should brush in small, circular motions, for two minutes. Flossing should be done using a clean portion of floss to gently move between each of your teeth. This helps to remove bacteria that could otherwise become lodged there, leading to inflammation and eventually infection.

Do You Schedule Frequent Cleanings?

Another simple way to care for your smile is by seeing your dentist on a regular basis, for preventive checkups and cleanings. Most dentists recommend visiting twice a year for cleanings, however, this is just a general guideline. If you have been prone to tartar buildup in the past, you and your dentist may agree that more frequent cleanings are necessary for you to keep your smile healthy. If you are currently struggling with gingivitis, specialized gum disease treatment may be in order.

Need a Preventive Dentist?

Preventive dental treatment is key to keeping both the teeth and gums healthy as one ages. Periodontal treatment may also be necessary, if your gums are already inflamed or infected. You can schedule a dental appointment by calling Dr. Steven Huffstutler in Ft. Worth, TX at 817-918-3038.