If we were to ask you what do you think is the most common dental problem in the world, you’d likely say “cavities,” right? In reality, they actually come in second to an issue many people don’t really think about, but quite a few have: gum disease. September is actually National Gum Care Month, so your dentist in El Reno is going to share a few helpful tips on how to keep this often forgotten part of your smile healthy year after year.

But First, What is Gum Disease?

Without consistent brushing and flossing at home as well as regular dental visits, plaque, tartar, and bacteria can slowly accumulate along the gum line, leading to an infection. This is what is called gum disease, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 50% of the U.S. adult population currently has at least a mild form of it.

Gum disease has two distinct stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. You’ve likely heard the word “gingivitis” before in commercials for oral health products. At this early stage, the gums become red, swollen, tender, and bleed quite easily during cleaning. Unfortunately, these symptoms can sometimes be so subtle that they go untreated for a long time, allowing advanced gum disease, or periodontitis, to develop.

Its symptoms are much more serious and hard to ignore, including bumps and sores along the gum line, gum recession, chronic bad breath, loose teeth, and ultimately…tooth loss. Gum disease is actually the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the world! It’s also considered a big risk factor for other serious conditions such as diabetes, heart attack, stroke, and even dementia.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

Luckily, preventing gum disease doesn’t require some intricate care routine. All a person really needs to do is brush and floss regularly and see their dentist at least every six months for a checkup and cleaning.

When taking care of your teeth at home, be mindful to brush where your teeth meet your gums to break up any plaque in the area, and be sure to floss below your gum line as well. This will prevent the buildup of all that harmful plaque and bacteria that is often the root cause of gum disease.

And, should your homecare routine fall behind and you end up developing a mild infection, your dentist will be able to catch and take care of it right away, given that you see them on a consistent basis! This two-pronged approach will go a long way in keeping your entire smile healthy for many years to come.

Don’t Ignore Your Gums!

Your gums are extremely important to your oral health as they provide essential protection and support for your teeth. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms we listed above, be sure to contact your dentist right away, and they’ll be able to take care of any issue using a deep cleaning or topical antibiotics. By keeping your gums in mind, you can look forward to having a smile that is happy, healthy, and whole for many years to come.

Meet the Dentists

Dr. Adam Cohlmia and Dr. Christopher Faulconer are homegrown Oklahoma dentists who both attended the OU College of Dentistry. Thanks to their years of experience, dedication to continuing education, and warm, friendly demeanors, they can guarantee that you and your family will only receive the highest-quality care and service at our practice. Call us at 405-262-6737 to learn more about El Reno Family Dentistry or visit our website at www.dentistelreno.com.