Since we were children, we have been told how important it is to take care of our teeth or caring for your gums. Brushing twice a day is something most of us make part of our daily routine.
But what about the rest of our mouths? What about what actually holds your teeth in place?
Gums are usually one of the more neglected parts of most people’s oral hygiene, yet the importance of care for your gums cannot be insisted on enough.
Gum disease is one of the most common complaints patients get diagnosed with.
Most people will suffer from at least a mild version of the condition at some point in their lives. Here is some information that may help you avoid that painful visit to the dentist. Whether you’re looking for a dentist Moss Vale, dentist Mittagong, or dentist Bowral, early care can save you a lot of trouble.
What is gum disease?
There are essentially two categories of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the earlier stage and affects the surface layer of the gum where it meets the tooth. The main symptoms of this is bleeding when brushing or eating and occasional swelling. Learn more about preventing gum disease through diet.
When this is not dealt with properly, gingivitis evolves into periodontitis. This is when things get serious and long term damage can be incurred such as bone damage and loss of teeth, not to mention a lot of pain.
This is because the gums deteriorate and spaces form where once the tooth was held firmly in place. In these new spaces, more bacteria gets trapped, further exacerbating the situation.
See the professionals
We mentioned avoiding a painful trip to the dentist earlier, but to avoid that kind of trip, regular visits must be scheduled to make sure everything is going smoothly.
Traditionally, it is said that one should get their teeth looked at twice a year. An oral health professional will be quick to point out developing gum disease and what you can do to nip it in the bud or prescribe treatment if necessary.
If you have any symptoms of gingivitis, make an appointment as soon as possible and do not neglect gum health as something inconsequential. It’s your smile that’s at stake, after all. For tips on brushing correctly, see our guide on Brushing Round and Round.
Prevention and maintaining gum health
To fight off gum disease, focus on targeting buildup of plaque and tartar on your teeth. Regular brushing as mentioned is already part of most people’s routine, but most do not do it correctly.
- Use a toothbrush with a small head and soft gentle bristles that won’t irritate the gums.
- Opt for toothpaste designed for sensitive gums and teeth if you already have swelling or bleeding. A toothpaste with fluoride will also help boost your oral hygiene.
- Flossing is important to remove buildup from places the brush cannot reach.
- Avoid smoking and stick to a healthy diet by limiting sugary foods and drinks.
- Consider regular professional cleanings from a pain free dental Moss Vale practice. Learn more about routine teeth scaling and cleaning for maintaining healthy gums.
It is always better to prevent gum disease than to treat it later, as it can get quite painful. Whether you are visiting painfree dentistry, dentist Mittagong, or dentist Bowral, prevention is far easier than cure.
More information
The Australian Dental Association NSW website offers a range of resources for people concerned about their dental health. For professional guidance, contact your local Pain Free Dental Clinic or Moss Vale Dental Clinic today.
Take Control of Your Gum Health Today!
Don’t wait for gum disease to cause pain or damage. Schedule your appointment with a Pain Free Dental Clinic in Moss Vale, Bowral, or Mittagong today and let our expert pain free dentists help you maintain a healthy, confident smile. Book Your Check-Up Now!
