National Gum Disease Awareness Month - How You Can Keep Your Gums Vibrant And Healthy?

February is National Gum Disease Awareness Month, and it’s a great time to learn more about this oral health condition. 

What is gum disease?

Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on teeth – it can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease if not removed regularly. If plaque is not removed, it hardens and becomes calculus on the teeth. Regular checkups and cleanings are essential in removing plaque and preventing the development of cavities and periodontal diseases.

Once calculus forms on the teeth, it is more difficult to remove and treat. Poor oral hygiene habits like irregular brushing or flossing can accelerate the process and make the disease worse. In the following blog, we offer some tips for great oral health throughout the year. 

• Tip #1: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush. 
• Tip #2: Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth and under the gum line.
• Tip #3: Eat a healthy diet consisting of vegetables, fruits, nuts, lean meats, and other nutritious foods. Avoid processed foods and foods high in sugar, as these foods tend to promote tooth decay.
• Tip #4: Visit the dentist on a regular basis for cleanings and checkups. These visits help remove built-up tartar, which can only be removed by a professional. Schedule dental exams every six months for most patients. Those with a history of gum disease or other risk factors may need more frequent examinations.
• Tip #5: Quit smoking or using tobacco products, which can further irritate the gums and lead to an increased risk of oral cancer and other health problems.
• Tip #6: Use an antiseptic mouthwash after brushing to further clean the teeth and kill bacteria. Be sure to consult your dentist before use to ensure proper use. 

How is gum disease diagnosed?

Early detection is key to treating gum disease. If you notice any of the following signs or symptoms, schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. The quicker you treat periodontal disease, the easier it will be to treat it and reverse its effects.

• Red, swollen, tender gums that bleed easily when brushing and flossing
• Gums that pull away from your teeth
• A persistent bad taste in your mouth
• Pain in your gums when you eat certain foods
• Loose teeth
• Teeth that are separating from each other

Your dentist will examine your bite and take X-rays to check for bone loss in your jaw. If caught early, gum disease can be treated with deep cleanings and more frequent cleanings. These treatments can help reverse the effects of the disease and prevent further infection. In some cases, antibiotics may also be prescribed to fight infections in the mouth.

Call us at 773-880-2310 or email us at office@sheffieldsquaredental.com to schedule your appointment. Visit Sheffield Square Dental Care at 2835 N. Sheffield Ave, Suite 305, Chicago, IL 60657.