Gum disease impacts almost 65 million people in the United States. The impact of gum disease is not only a problem for your dental health, but your overall health as well. Maintaining a healthy oral hygiene routine and attending your regular dental checkups are helpful in maintaining your oral health. However, once you have gum disease you’ll need additional dental intervention to keep your teeth and gums in good shape. Below are some of the early causes of gum disease and ways that you can keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Early Signs of Gum Disease
Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease. It is a common and mild form of gum disease that causes irritation, redness, swelling, and sometimes bleeding. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to head to the dentist as soon as possible. Gingivitis is caused by the buildup of plaque on your teeth. Plaque is something everyone has to some degree in their mouth. It is highly common and is the fuzzy film found on your teeth. The bacteria in plaque mixes with the foods and drinks you consume and creates a harmful acid. These acids can cause gingivitis, which can eventually lead to gum disease.
Causes of Early Gum Disease
If plaque and gingivitis are left untreated, they can lead to gum disease. The following are early causes of gum disease.
- Poor Oral Care Routine: Having a consistent and healthy oral care routine is crucial when it comes to your oral health. This requires doing the work at home, in addition to visiting the dentist regularly. It’s important to brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush for two minutes. Flossing is also necessary and if you only floss once a day, floss at night. This ensures that you get rid of any leftover debris from the daytime. Lastly, if you can’t brush after you eat, use mouthwash thirty minutes after you eat to get rid of any harmful bacteria until you can brush. It is recommended that you visit the dentist every six months for your regular dental checkups. You may need to go to the dentist more often depending on your unique oral health situation, so talk with your dentist about what is right for you.
- Smoking: Smoking impacts your oral and overall health in a variety of ways. It’s best to stop smoking altogether due to its impact on the function of your gum tissue. Smoking can make your mouth much more vulnerable to infection, in addition to making your gums weaker. One of the oral health risks related to smoking is early gum disease.
- Poor Diet: Having a diet filled with harmful foods, such as candy, pastries, sodas, and juices can have a negative impact on your oral health. These foods can combine with the harmful bacteria in your mouth which can cause plaque. Focusing on a diet that is rich in nutrients and eating treats in moderation is key.
Dental Care of Chino Hills
Gum disease is a serious condition that should be addressed as soon as possible. Gum disease treatment in Chino can restore your dental health to ensure you stay healthy. If you are concerned about your oral health and think you may have gum disease, contact the dentists at Dental Care of Chino Hills. They are skilled in a variety of dental treatments, including general, cosmetic, restorative, and pediatric dentistry. They have also helped patients with gum disease get their oral health back on track. Contact the team at Dental Care of Chino Hills today to set up an appointment!