FIVE Things You Can Do to Help Your Family Fight Gum Disease

February has been designated Gum Disease Awareness Month as part of a national effort to raise awareness about gum disease and the consequences when it is left untreated. Here at Blacker Family Dental in Kansas City, we like to believe that we are taking an active role in helping our patients and their families understand and fight a disease that affects many Americans. That means growing your knowledge of the symptoms and dangers of gum disease, as well as of your treatment options and what you can do to prevent gum disease in the first place.

Experts have estimated that gum disease affects more than 70% of the population. The effects of gum disease can range from bad breath to inflamed, painful, or bleeding gums and, in its worst cases, to tooth loss. But gum disease doesn’t just affect your gums. In fact, gum disease has been linked to a variety of systemic ailments, including diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. Part of the reason is that when your gums become inflamed, they give bacteria an opportunity to enter the bloodstream and affect the rest of your body.

Gum disease has a variety of causes, including plaque and tartar buildup, improper oral health care, and tobacco use. So, this Gum Disease Awareness Month, what can you do to join your Kansas City family dentist in the fight against gum disease?

1. Establish a daily routine. Brushing and flossing every day is one of the best ways to prevent gum disease, and one of the best ways to ensure that you brush and floss regularly is to make it a habit. Brush and floss at the same time every day, and you’ll find that you’re less likely to skip.
2. Brush and floss correctly. Brush twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Floss at least once a day, and practice proper flossing form to make sure that you get between all of your teeth. Rinse your mouth with an ADA-approved antimicrobial mouthwash.
3. Eat right. A healthy diet is good for your whole body, and that goes for your gums, as well. While you’re at it, steer clear of tobacco products, which can stain teeth and lead to a variety of oral health concerns, including gum disease.
4. Watch for the symptoms of gum disease. Gum disease comes in different forms and with a variety of symptoms, including red and swollen or bleeding gums, bad breath, infection in the gums, tooth loss, and more. Keeping an eye out for symptoms can help you catch gum disease before it gets any worse.
5. See your Kansas City family dentist. No one is more qualified than your dentist to spot gum disease at its earliest stages and prevent it from becoming more severe. It’s a good idea to see your dentist 3-4 times per year anyway for a cleaning and checkup, which can also help you catch gum disease early on.

If you’re concerned about gum disease or just need to schedule a cleaning, call Blacker Family Dental in Kansas City at (816) 763-8400 or click here to schedule an appointment.