It goes without saying that the last thing anyone wants to happen is that they lose a tooth due to a condition that could have been treated if help was sought in a timely manner. While this may be at the back of some people’s minds, for others, this is a harsh reality. Indeed, dental prevention is the main practice that keeps our smiles healthy, and restorative treatment comes in handy when these methods fall short. But what about situations that may not be immediately pertaining to your teeth? In today’s blog, your Auburn Hills, MI dentist takes a look at why it is important to consider gum health, as well as ways you can do just that.
More Common Than You Think
When we ask our patients what the most common oral health concern out there is, they often respond by stating that it is tooth decay. While this is certainly true, it is important to consider that there are other elements that comprise your oral health as well, meaning that are far more options out there that can pose a significant threat. Believe it or not, gum disease is one of those issues.
Gum disease is a periodontal concern in which your gums become infected or inflamed due to a deposit of plaque and bacteria below their surfaces. Some of the common symptoms that accompany gum disease include bleeding or swollen gums, alarmingly loose teeth, separation of teeth from the tissues that house them, and even structures falling out on their own. To learn more about this process and the steps you can take, contact our team today.
The Role of Flossing
While it may seem like the least important preventive practice initially, flossing actually plays a vital role in periodontal health. When we eat, food particles become lodged between teeth, and sometimes they need help to work their way out. Because gum disease occurs when oral bacteria are attracted to the gums, mitigating this effect by removing the stuck particles increases your smile’s chances of maintaining its health. So, next time you decide flossing does not matter, consider the impact it may have on your smile’s health. Reach out to our team today to learn more.
Additional Treatment Options
When periodontal concerns progress because you were unaware there was an issue in the first place, your dentist may suggest the help of scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning. This process consists of carefully but thoroughly removing the deposits of plaque on the roots of your teeth, then smoothing their surfaces so that future bacteria attachment is difficult.
Learn More Today
Contact Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI by calling 248-852-1820 to learn more about the need for periodontal care, and schedule your next appointment with our team today.
