Even after brushing and flossing your teeth, you can still feel those few spots you simply can't reach where plaque still coats your teeth. While you ignore this plaque and assume there's nothing you can do about it, it will accumulate and may even spread beneath your gums. Once this has happened, you may find yourself in the early stages of gum disease and eventually you may even lose your teeth as a result. What is gum disease and what can you do to fight it?
What is gum disease?
Gum disease, also known as gingivitis and periodontitis, depending on how advanced it is, is a widespread problem among people in Acworth. Bacteria in your mouth form plaque on your teeth, and if this plaque is not removed, it will build up and creep between the teeth and under the gums leading to cavities and gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gum tissues that shows itself as inflamed and often bleeding gums.
How are your dental hygiene habits?
The best way to fight gum disease is by making sure your teeth stay free of plaque. Even though you brush your teeth at home, when was the last time you really thought about the way you care for your teeth? Revising your dental hygiene habits in the following ways might keep your gums safe from disease.
- Brush your teeth after meals for 2-3 minutes using circular motions. Don't bend the bristles of your toothbrush against your teeth
- Floss between your teeth at least once a day by firmly pulling the floss between the teeth along the edge of each tooth from below the gum line up
- Avoid snacking throughout the day as much as possible, as this leaves food particles on your teeth that can turn into plaque
- Consider using an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing and flossing your teeth to kill any remaining bacteria
- Visit your dentist every six months to have your teeth professionally cleaned to remove any plaque that you may have missed
If it's been a while since your last appointment, call our office near Acworth at (770) 423-1132 to make an appointment. Let our hygienist get the hard-to-reach spots between your teeth to prevent cavities and gum disease.