Cavities are a serious concern, but maintaining your oral health calls for more than just protecting yourself against dental decay. People who experience problems with poor periodontal health can have their overall health negatively affected, and they can face a higher risk for tooth loss. One thing to remember is that your regular dental exams protect your gums in addition to protecting your teeth. During your review at our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office, your gums will be closely checked for any signs of gingivitis. If signs of trouble are present, we can perform a special periodontal cleaning to remove bacteria that have gathered below your gums. While access to this service is beneficial, remember that there are steps you can take on your own to keep your gums healthy!
1. Remember To Thoroughly Floss On A Daily Basis
Bacteria that gather at the base of your teeth are able to infiltrate your gum line and cause trouble by infecting the tissues. To fight this buildup, make sure you floss as well as brush on a daily basis. Cleaning the areas between your teeth with a floss string will keep you safe from potential infection, guarding you against the onset of gingivitis. While brushing can lead to great protection for your overall smile, remember that these particular spaces are hard to keep clean if you only rely on your toothbrush!
2. Watch Out For Signs Of Gingivitis
There are early signs of gingivitis that you can identify on your own. You should be concerned if your gums often bleed when you brush and floss, or if they appear discolored or swollen. When they have these problems, or if you experience extended and embarrassing periods with bad breath, it can be a sign that you are not protecting your gum line like you should be. Make sure you have your next routine exam with your dentist set, and be as thorough as possible when you clean your smile on your own.
3. Schedule Routine Dental Exams
Without regular checkups scheduled, you can be vulnerable to the formation and worsening of problems that impact your oral health. People who do not attend routine exams can have a cavity form on a tooth without realizing it, then experience problems with a painful tooth infection at a later date. At every routine review, we will be able to look for – and treat – cavities through restorative dentistry, and we can take the time to see if a special periodontal cleaning is needed.
Our Ankeny, IA Dentist’s Office Can Help You Maintain Healthy Gums
Our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office is prepared to help patients regain healthy smiles, and we can provide preventive care to help them avoid troubles. To learn how we can make sure that your teeth and gums remain healthy, please contact Dental Impressions at (515) 965-0230.
