At Dental Care Stamford, we are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain healthy gums. Gum disease is a common issue that can affect anyone, but the good news is that it’s preventable with the right care. As September is Gum Care Awareness Month, we want to take this opportunity to spread the word about the importance of gum health and how you can protect your gums from disease.
First, understanding gum disease is so important! Why? Because knowing more about your dental health, the easier it is you stay proactive and keep your smile healthy between visits.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, begins with inflammation of the gums and can progress to more serious conditions that affect the bones supporting your teeth. Early signs include:
Without treatment, it can lead to tooth loss. Our goal at Dental Care Stamford is to help you prevent gum disease before it becomes a serious problem.
1. Commit to Daily Dental Hygiene
Preventing gum disease starts at home with good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste helps remove the plaque that can lead to gum disease. Flossing daily is just as important—it cleans your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. These simple habits are the first line of defense in keeping your gums healthy.
2. Regular Dental Checkups and Cleanings are Crucial
Even with the best at-home care, professional dental cleanings are essential. At Dental Care Stamford, our team can catch early signs of gum disease and provide the care you need to keep your gums in tip-top shape. Regular checkups allow us to monitor your gum health and give you personalized advice to prevent problems before they start. Fortunately, we have a team of dental specialists in our office. If you show signs of gum disease during one of your regular exams, we can quickly schedule an appointment with our in-house periodontist to start treatment immediately and prevent further damage to your gums. Schedule your appointment today!
3. Consider Antibacterial Mouthwash
Adding an antibacterial mouthwash to your routine can help reduce the bacteria that cause gum disease. While brushing and flossing are key, mouthwash provides an extra layer of protection by reaching areas you might miss. The only mouthwash we recommend has Chlorine dioxide in it and NOT alcohol. Oxyfresh is the brand Dr. Simon uses personally.
4. Eat for Your Gum Health
What you eat affects your gums just as much as your teeth. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense foods supports your gum health. Vitamin C, in particular, is essential for maintaining the health of your gum tissue. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks also helps prevent plaque buildup that can lead to gum disease.
5. Be Mindful of Tobacco Use
Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for gum disease. Smoking or using other tobacco products can make gum disease worse and harder to treat. Quitting tobacco not only benefits your overall health but also greatly improves the health of your gums.
6. Address Teeth Grinding and Clenching
If you grind or clench your teeth, you are putting extra pressure on the bones that hold your teeth which can lead to recession and sensitivity. At Dental Care Stamford, we offer custom solutions, to protect your teeth and gums from the effects of grinding. Dr. Simon has written a book on just this subject. Learn more
This September, for Gum Care Awareness Month, we invite you to take proactive steps to care for your gums. Whether it’s scheduling your next dental cleaning, improving your at-home oral care routine, or just learning more about gum health, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
If you’re concerned about your gum health or it’s time for your next checkup, we encourage you to reach out. Our team at Dental Care Stamford is dedicated to providing the care you need to keep your gums healthy.
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