Many dental patients in Coquitlam believe they have perfect oral health. However, at Coquitlam General and Sedation Dentistry, we see many patients who are suffering from gingivitis and gum disease without even realizing it. Puffy, red gums that bleed could mean you have gingivitis. If you ignore these symptoms — and many patients do as the swelling, redness and bleeding aren’t typically painful — you may be on your way to early stage periodontal (gum) disease. But, it’s also possible to prevent the disease from occurring by reducing plaque build-up. Daily flossing and brushing, as well as regular dental hygienist cleanings, can keep plaque away. Regular dental checkups at Coquitlam General and Sedation Dentistry are crucial in gum disease prevention since any early signs of decay can be caught.
Some of our Coquitlam patients are surprised when their previously healthy, pink gums start to turn red and begin to bleed, but an individual’s oral health can change at any time. This is why gum disease prevention must be an ongoing effort on your part. Without daily flossing and brushing, plus regular checkups and cleanings at Coquitlam General and Sedation Dentistry, you’re likely to be at risk for periodontal disease. Make sure you brush at least twice a day, as well as floss daily, to avoid plaque build-up. Plaque, a film containing bacteria and acids, ruins tooth enamel as well as causes periodontal disease. Food particles can become trapped in plaque and further the progress of the disease, so it’s important to get regular hygienist cleanings plus gum disease prevention support from your dentist, who may recommend fluoride or other decay-preventive solutions.
Getting tips and checkups at Coquitlam General and Sedation Dentistry is an easy way to prevent gum disease and avoid destroying the structure of your teeth. Without regular professional care, moderate and late stages of gum disease may occur. If the gums aren’t healthy, they can’t adequately support the teeth. In the moderate stage of periodontal disease, gums tend to recede and expose large portions of the upper teeth–negatively affecting the tooth structure. Teeth often become loose at this stage. You’ll need to see your oral health expert to help avoid the advanced stage of gum disease. This stage of periodontal disease is the main cause of adult tooth loss and pain is typically present due to infection being built up deeply within the gums.
Don’t put off the state of your oral health! Contact the team at Coquitlam General and Sedation Dentistry to book an appointment for personalized gum disease prevention and treatment.
Here’s a great video about what you can do to prevent gum disease and keep your smile healthy!
It is a commonly known fact that smoking leads to health problems such as lung cancer, but did you know that smoking and oral health problems often go hand in hand?
In fact, smoking is the leading cause for almost 75% of gum disease in adults. This percentage includes adults who smoke from pipes and cigars, as well as those enjoying smokeless tobacco.
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“As soon as you begin using tobacco products, you are more likely to experience these common problems that are tied with smoking and oral health problems” |
As soon as you begin using tobacco products, you are more likely to experience these common problems that are tied with smoking and oral health problems:
At Coquitlam General & Sedation Dentistry, we are always dedicated to helping you maintain optimal oral health, that is why we strongly recommend patients to quit using any tobacco products.
For the sake of your teeth, gums and oral health, use these steps recommended by the Surgeon General to help make quitting smoking easier.
The team at Coquitlam General & Sedation Dentistry understand how difficult and time-consuming quitting smoking can be. However, we are dedicated to helping you protect your most valuable asset—your beautiful smile.
Contact our clinic if you are in need of any support or advice on your journey to understanding smoking and oral health issues.