Some Basics of Gum Disease From Dr. Rief

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN ADVISED TO WATCH FOR SIGNS OF GUM DISEASE? Chances are, if you’ve ever visited a dentist, you’ve been checked—to some extent—for symptoms of this problem. Here at Crossroads Dental Arts, for many of our patients, a routine check typically reveals healthy, disease-free gums. We’re glad for that… But sometimes people with healthy gums forget that it’s still important to regularly look for early signs of a problem.

Dr. Rief suggests, “If you have early signs of gum disease, the best thing that can be done is to take care of it before it gets out of hand.” For many of you that may mean being well informed about gum disease, including symptoms to watch for.

As the video below outlines, gum disease can be divided into three stageswhich can range from a simple amount of gum inflammation to major tissue damage and tooth loss. It’s been said before, but as a reminder, the sooner periodontal disease is caught the more we can do to successfully reverse the affects.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms as listed below, and outlined in the video, be sure to have Dr. Rief take a look:

• Gums bleed easily while flossing or brushing
• Swollen, red or tender gums
• Receding or separated gums that are exposing teeth
• Changes in how your teeth fit together
• Constant bad breath or unpleasant taste in your mouth

Of course, never having gum disease is the best scenario.

Because gum disease starts with bacteria in the plaque on your teeth, paying close attention to your oral hygiene is your greatest defense. This includes your daily care—thorough brushing and regular flossing, as well as your regular checkups. If plaque hardens to your teeth, only a dental cleaning can completely remove it and stop gum disease from starting.

We want to keep you informed and healthy with information on many aspects of your oral health.

We invite you to contact our office or join us on Facebook. Liking our Facebook page gives you access to discussions on our wall about your oral health, as well as updates about current promotions in our office. Click below:

We look forward to seeing you during your next visit!

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