Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids is here to help prevent gum disease

In recent blogs, we have talked about regular checkups and oral cancer screenings. When it comes to your well-being, dentist visits have many more health benefits than many people realize. At Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA, we are here to help you maintain a clean smile so that you can enjoy your life. In today’s blog, we are here to discuss the importance of caring for your gums.

The Purpose Of Your Gums

Have you ever wondered what purpose your gingival tissue serves? They function as a foundation to support your teeth, keep them in place, and protect your bloodstream from infection. When you skip flossing for extended periods, you are putting yourself at risk for bacteria to enter the rest of your body. Neglecting your oral and periodontal health can lead to developing periodontitis, which can lead to inflammation and even tooth loss in severe cases.

Proper Gum Care

Caring for your gingival tissue includes a good oral hygiene routine and a healthy diet. Be sure to brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day and floss as well. This helps prevent plaque from building up and causing cavities and gingivitis. If you begin to notice bleeding when you floss, change in color, or have swollen tissue, see your dentist as soon as possible.

Avoid smoking or using tobacco products such as dip because this can harm your gums. Eating more nutritious foods like fruit and vegetables instead of sweets can help keep your smile healthy as well. Regular dental cleanings, fluoride toothpaste, and mouthwash are also important steps in your oral hygiene. When it comes to flossing, be sure to use string floss and go between every single tooth. If you have braces or other difficulties reaching areas, a water pick may be a good alternative.

Deep Cleanings For Periodontal Disease

If you have been skipping essential parts of your oral hygiene routine and begin to notice a change in the color of your gums, bad breath even after brushing, bleeding, or swelling of the gums, these could be early signs of gingivitis. This early stage of infection can be reversed with root planing and scaling. If ignored, the advanced stages of this disease cannot be cured so be sure to see a dentist regularly to avoid severe problems.

A periodontal cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar from beneath the gum line and reattaching the tissue to your teeth. This is more thorough than a typical visit and may take a few appointments to achieve.

Schedule Your Checkup Today

Caring for your gingival tissue is a crucial part of maintaining your health. Call Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA, today at (319) 364-7108 to schedule an appointment. We also happily welcome patients who live in Mount Vernon, Iowa City, Hiawatha, and all nearby communities.