Save Your Smile from Gingivitis

The first signs of gum disease may be staring you in the face. Red, sore, swollen gums are the earliest signs of gingivitis, which is the mildest form of periodontal disease. While gingivitis happens to most of us, it’s also missed by many of us because its symptoms are often ignored. But if the problem isn’t treated quickly, it can lead to more serious health trouble. Since maintaining good dental care can prevent or reverse the problem, check out these helpful and healthful tips to keep your gums in the pink.

What Causes Gum Disease?

When we’re bad about good dental care and fail to brush twice a day, forget to floss daily, and skip professional dental cleanings, we’re raising our risk for gingivitis. This mild form of gum disease is caused when bacteria in the mouth forms a sticky plaque on the teeth. This pesky plaque releases acids that attack the teeth’s enamel. It quickly hardens into a layer of tartar that forms along the gum line and makes it hard to clean your teeth and gums. Soon, this buildup starts to inflame your gums and causes gingivitis.

What Are the Symptoms of Gingivitis?

Most of us never realize we have gingivitis until we’re in the dentist’s chair. Rather than wait until it’s too late, you can catch this periodontal disease at its earliest stages since it literally leaves these four “red” flags:

1. Sore, tender gums
2. Red, swollen, soft gums
3. Bleeding gums
4. Painful mouth sores

Preventing Periodontal Disease

The good news is that gingivitis can be prevented or reversed. The bad news is that this gum disease can return at any time. To avoid or avert this dental danger, the American Dental Association asks you to keep these healthy habits:

• Gently brush your teeth twice a day, and thoroughly clean all surfaces.
• Floss daily.
• Rinse once a day with a mouthwash labeled as antigingivitis, antibacterial, or antiseptic.
• Quit smoking.
• Choose healthy foods and beverages.
• See your dentist every six months for check-ups and cleanings.

Gum disease can strike at any time. But by taking care of your teeth and gums, you can beat and treat periodontal disease.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Owings Mills, call Valley Dental Associates today at (443) 898-1240 or make an appointment.