The more you become familiar with periodontal disease, the better you will be at recognizing symptoms and remembering that your dental checkups are a very important aspect of prevention. What you might not be so great at yet is recognizing that there are some problems that may lead to discomfort, irritation, and inflammation that are not connected to gum disease. Instead, they are the direct result of something you’re doing that is not-so-great for your oral health. Don’t worry, we can help you steer clear of them, so your gums remain comfortable and healthy.
#1: When It’s Irritation From OTC Whitening
Did you worry that your over-the-counter teeth whitening wasn’t a good idea? Did you notice that it felt very uncomfortable on your gums as the product attempted to work its magic? Unfortunately, when you’re applying harsh chemicals to your smile, they can lead to some serious irritation that may seem to mimic the onset of gum disease. Do yourself a favor: If this has already occurred, schedule a visit. If you’re still thinking about whitening, call us to set up a professional treatment instead (it’s much safer).
#2: When You’re Overdoing The Hygiene
It’s possible that what looks like gum disease and what feels very uncomfortable is actually just the result of your overzealous attempt at caring for your smile with over-the-top dental hygiene. It’s important to remember that while gentle bristles, gentle toothpaste, gentle strokes, and gentle flossing seem counterproductive, they’re actually the best way to clean your smile. When you’re hard on your gums, they will not react well.
