The Trials of Gum Disease
Gingival tissue (AKA your gums) prevent food particles from settling in the darkest recesses of your tooth structure. When you don’t take care of your teeth and gums, they are both at risk of infection. Different types of bacteria create periodontal disease and cavities, but tartar (calcified plaque) exacerbates both issues. Keeping your smile (and all of its various parts) free of plaque and tartar will help keep your gum tissues healthy. This will ensure that gums are not susceptible to deeper infection. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, wherein gums become puffy and bleed easily. If not tended to, this can segue into periodontitis (severe gum disease) which includes periodontal pockets and gum recession.
Avoiding a Recession
There is a certain degree of gum recession which happens with age, even when you have the healthiest smile around. However, the most expedient recession occurs when gum disease, teeth grinding, poorly done dental work, and over-crowded teeth are issues. To do your best to avoid gum recession, first invest in a high quality toothbrush. If you opt for a manual toothbrush, replace it every 4 weeks. An electric toothbrush should be given a new head replacement every 3 months. If you are a teeth grinder, get fitted by your dentist with a mouthguard to be worn at night. In general, visit the dentist every 6 months, without fail, and brush twice a day and floss at least once a day. Your gums will likely thank you by sticking around a lot longer.
ABOUT YOUR EVANSTON DENTIST:
Dr. Brent Engelberg and his highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including; Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at 847-259-8030.