Do you wonder if your gums are actually healthy? Have you begun to worry about your smile because of bleeding as you brush or floss, discoloration or sensitivity in your gum tissue? If so, it is time to talk to your preventive dentist about how a cleaning or periodontal therapy could help improve your overall oral health. Keep in mind that healthy gums are necessary to maintaining a lovely smile, so it is in your best interest that you protect them through excellent preventive care.
Have You Noticed Inflammation or Bleeding?
Many people assume that bleeding while brushing their teeth or flossing is normal. Sadly, that is likely because approximately 75 percent of Americans are struggling with symptoms of gum disease, including bleeding gums.
Many people suffer with other symptoms as well, like chronic bad breath, darkly-colored or inflamed gums, without ever realizing these are indications of a potentially serious problem.
If caught early, gum disease symptoms, like these, can usually be reversed through cleanings and periodontal therapy, if needed. However, if left to progress, gum disease can cause teeth to loosen and eventually fall out.
Gum disease poses a serious health risk to the rest of the body as well, because the gum tissue can send bacteria and toxins to other parts of the body. In fact, studies have found high correlations between gum disease and heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and other medical conditions. Though research is still being conducted to better understand these links, it is clear that taking good care of your gums can be important to more than just your smile!
To best care for your gums, be sure to attend regular checkups and dental cleanings, and talk to your dentist if you begin experiencing any of the symptoms of gum disease. It’s also important to brush and floss your teeth everyday, to keep your gums in good health.
ABOUT YOUR WACO, TX, DENTIST:
We look forward to providing families with exceptional care and advanced treatment options. To schedule an appointment with Corbet Locke, DDS, contact our Waco, TX, dental office today by calling 254-776-4888. Our office welcomes patients in and around Waco, TX, including Hewitt, McGregor, Woodway, and the surrounding Central Texas communities.