You Have to Focus on More Than Just Your Teeth

Cleaning your teeth is an important part of protecting your oral health and preserving your smile. Cavities can wear away at enamel — damaging the structure of teeth and leaving unsightly blemishes. It’s easy to focus on brushing your teeth as part of your oral healthcare home routine. However, you can’t forget to give some time and attention to your gums as well. Your gum line can accrue bacteria over time as well. Gingivitis develops when your gums remain inflamed for a period of time. If left untreated, your gum disease can worsen into a lifelong condition.

Give As Much Focus and Care to Your Gums as You Do Your Teeth

Beneath your gums, the roots of your teeth hold your teeth in place. Without healthy gums, your teeth may loosen and even fall out eventually. Just as bacteria build up on the surfaces of your teeth, they can aggregate around and beneath your gum line. This is what causes the inflammation that triggers gingivitis. You should absolutely brush your teeth at least twice a day at home. While brushing, make sure you brush around the gum line to disrupt bacterial formation. You should also give time and focus to flossing to keep your gums clean.

Periodontitis Is an Advanced Form of Gingivitis

If you develop gum disease, you need to see your dentist right away. Redness, swelling, and bleeding around the gum line are all strong indicators that you may have gum disease. If you don’t treat your gingivitis in time, it can progress to periodontitis. This condition is irreversible, meaning you’ll have to manage it for the rest of your life. Without regular treatment for periodontitis, you may eventually suffer tooth loss and jaw bone degradation.

Elm Creek Can Help You Care for Your Gums and Manage Periodontitis

It’s in your best interest to avoid gum disease altogether. By consistently tending to your gums with brushing and flossing, you can drastically reduce your risk for this condition. If you do ultimately develop periodontitis, Elm Creek Dental can help. Our knowledgeable staff can manage the condition with regular cleanings to prevent the more drastic side effects from occurring. To schedule an appointment with Elm Creek Dental in Maple Grove, MN, contact the office at 763-416-0606.