If you have a healthy smile, then you want to keep it that way tomorrow, next week, next month, and for years to come. But there is a silent smile killer that’s got the potential to ruin those plans.
It’s gum disease, and it’s one of the leading causes of tooth loss in the United States. At the same time, the potential problems with periodontal disease go beyond your mouth.
Fortunately, you don’t have to live with a gum infection. You can get treatment right here at our Bingham Farms, MI dentist office. Call 248-965-4108 today to schedule an appointment at Groth Dental.
When to Visit Us
February is Gum Disease Awareness Month. It’s a good time to remind everyone that you should be making dental visits a few times each year for routine checkups. Professional cleanings and exams are an important part of preventive oral care. This should complement your daily brushing and flossing. And yes, flossing is important, too, because it is the most effective way to remove harmful bacteria, plaque, and food particles from between your teeth and gums.
Flossing also can let you know when you have a problem. If you aren’t flossing regularly, then you may bleed when you floss. This is a sign of gingivitis, which is a mild form of gum disease. Other symptoms of this condition include gums that appear red and swollen. (In contrast, healthy gums look pink and feel firm).
By seeking treatment at this early stage, you can reverse your condition, restore your gum health, and avoid the consequences that come with advanced gum disease, periodontitis.
Above, we noted that gum disease can affect more than your smile. The bacteria that cause gum infections can get into your bloodstream and affect other parts of your body as well.
In fact, people with periodontal disease have an increased risk of:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes complications
- Heart attacks
- Respiratory disease
- Rheumatoid arthritis
This isn’t a complete list, but it gives you an idea of how much periodontal problems can spread. It’s also a good reason to address problems as quickly as possible.
Don’t Wait If You See These Signs
Plan A should always be to prevent problems. But Plan B should be treating them as soon as you are able. Red, swollen gums and bleedings gums should be addressed, but these aren’t emergencies that need to be fixed immediately.
If you have symptoms of more advanced gum infections, then you should contact us to get an appointment. This still may not rise to the level of a dental emergency, but you should not ignore these symptoms:
- Sore or tender gums*
- Bad breath or a lingering bad taste in your mouth
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- Loose teeth or loss of teeth
- Gums that pull away from your teeth (receding gums)
- Changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite
* It is important to note that many people never feel pain as a result of gum disease.
Protect Your Gums
Keep up your oral health. Be proactive in the fight against gum disease, and know that we are on your side. Call 248-965-4108 or fill out our online form to request an appointment at Groth Dental in Bingham Farms, MI.