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Gum Disease and Healthy Teeth

Gum Disease and Healthy Teeth

Fight Gum Disease To Keep Your Teeth Healthy

Did you know that diseased or infected gums can weaken your teeth? Your mouth is the doorway to your body; whatever you eat or drink has an impact on it. And your teeth are the most important part of the whole digestion process. Also, healthy teeth contribute to a pleasant smile.

However, one of the most neglected and undervalued structures inside your mouth are your gums. Your teeth will not remain healthy for long if your gums are infected. Gum diseases are common in the US, and it is believed that around 75% of Americans suffer from some kind of gum disease. This article will look at how you can keep your gums in healthy condition.

Your Gums Are Important

Many times, people are so focused on taking care of their teeth that they forget about the gums. Your gums are part of what holds your teeth in place. They protect the sensitive roots from the bacteria inside the mouth that could destroy them. If your gums begin to loosen due to an injury or illness, your teeth also can become unstable. You cannot have strong and healthy teeth without healthy gums.

Give Your Gums a Better Routine

A regular dental health routine can make a big difference for your gums. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and brush gently, don’t scrub, so that your gums don’t become scratched or cut while brushing. Brushing too hard can also result in gum recession, which can eventually expose the tooth root and tooth instability.

Gums can Become Sick

If case you didn’t know, your gums can become sick if you don’t care for your mouth properly. Gingivitis is perhaps the most common mouth condition across the U.S. and it happens because people don’t clean their mouths properly. With this disease, gums become inflamed and bleed when you brush. They may also start to pull away from the base of your teeth creating pockets in which plaque and bacteria can build up.

Periodontitis is the second stage of gum disease where the gum has pulled away further from the gum and plaque and tartar have built up below the gumline. Not only can this bacteria continue to eat away at the gum, but also the tooth root which is not protected by enamel, and the supporting bone.  Left untreated, your teeth can fall out.

What does Gum Treatment Cost?

Treatment for gingivitis includes regular, good hygiene practices at home and cleanings with your dental hygienist. Periodontitis will require clearing away of plaque and tartar from around the tooth roots, and planing or filing down of the tooth root surface so that it’s more difficult for food and bacteria to adhere to the tooth. Such treatment usually costs between $250-300, but you will need to talk to your dentist about the costs for your specific case.

Looking for a dentist who can help keep your smile healthy, including your gums? Look to our expert team of skillful dentists who are always ready to provide you affordable, effective dental treatment.

Contact Stellar Dental in Silver Spring or Hyattsville, Maryland to schedule an appointment.