Along with safeguarding your teeth against tooth decay and dental infection, you also need to maintain better care of your gums. Not only do they frame your smile, but they also keep your teeth in place! Without regular homecare, you could be more likely to suffer from issues like gingivitis and gum disease, which in some cases, could lead to adult tooth loss. Your El Paso, TX, dentists have a few helpful tips in today’s blog!
The Causes of Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease
When our teeth become coated in plaque buildup due to poor oral hygiene, then this layer could begin to weaken the outer enamel, causing a cavity. The buildup also irritates the gum tissues as well, leading to inflammation. Also known as gingivitis, gum inflammation could cause the tissues to look red, feel sore, and even bleed easily. Unless reversed, gingivitis could cause the gums to pull away from the teeth and form deep pockets for harmful bacteria to enter. At this point, the onset of periodontal disease is likely. There is no cure for periodontal disease, but regular care to manage it is crucial for keeping periodontitis at bay, an advanced stage linked to adult tooth loss. Other factors aside from oral hygiene include inflammatory illnesses, family history of periodontal health issues, tobacco use, and certain medications.
Brushing and Flossing
Caring for your smile at home helps control plaque buildup and reduces the risk of gingivitis and gum disease. First, make sure you start and end each day by brushing your teeth for about two minutes. Be sure not to brush too hard, as this could irritate your gum tissues. You need to floss each night as well, moving the tape up and down each side of every tooth to remove trapped food particles. Be sure you dip below the gum line in a “c” motion to remove all trapped food particles. These steps also help reduce the chances of tooth decay and dental infection as well!
Watching for Signs of Trouble
Remember, we’re still providing treatment for dental emergencies, such as cracked or chipped teeth, or teeth that ache due to cavities of infection. If you experience these issues, then let us know. If you have any questions about caring for your smile from home, again contact us. We’d love to hear from you, and make sure you and your family are staying healthy!
SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO DISCUSS PERIODONTAL HEALTH
At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, we know that routine care for your gingival tissues could help prevent tooth loss and uncomfortable symptoms. For more information on keeping your gums strong and healthy, then contact our N. Zaragoza dental practice by calling 915-849-9000.