Gum Disease – Prevent it Before it Steals Your Smile

NW Calgary Dentists at Metro Dental in Harvest Hills know all about Gum Disease – how it occurs, what you can do to prevent it, and what to do if you are dealing with this dental condition that can ruin your smile in no time. Dr. Verena Lam and Dr. Jeff Chen believe that gum disease can be easily prevented, so take the time to educate patients on the steps to take to keep gums healthy and a smile bright. Gum Disease is inflammation of soft tissues surrounding teeth – and if left unchecked can develop to become Periodontal Disease - the leading cause of premature tooth loss in adults. Unlike young children who tend to lose teeth to decay – adult patients are affected by the destructive nature of gum and periodontal disease – a dental disease that involves both gum and bone tissue. In order to keep teeth for a lifetime, they need to be supported by adequate bone levels and soft tissue. Gum Disease or Gingivitis is a common ailment – affecting 75% of American adults – whom are often unaware of just how damaging this condition can be – not just for teeth, but for the body as a whole. Caused by inadequate home care – Gum Disease is diagnosed by red puffy gums that bleed easily when prodded. Gum inflammation is a response to the bacteria that live in plaque – a white sticky substance that tends to gather at the gum line. When plaque is not removed through daily brushing and flossing; levels of bacteria increase - irritating gum tissue and causing it to become inflamed and tender. Patients who experience bleeding, puffy gums should immediately increase the amount they brush and floss – as the bleeding is an indication of plaque buildup. Curious to know how long it takes to affectively brush your teeth? Two minutes. Most people brush for an average of forty-eight seconds – which leaves behind food remnants and bacteria – increasing the risk of developing dental decay and gum disease. Some patients naturally develop plaque at a higher rate than others – sometimes due to certain medications, they are taking or due to diseases like diabetes. This natural tendency for the body to have higher levels of bacteria in the mouth means that home care has is even more important – and trips to the dental hygienist for a professional cleaning may be more frequent. Having a dental hygienist clean your teeth on a regular basis is crucial to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. A hygienist's tools are able to access hard-to-reach areas of the mouth that are prone to develop buildups in plaque – but committing to a recommended cleaning schedule to ensure healthy gums and prevent more serious issues like Periodontal Disease. Dr. Verena Lam and Dr. Jeff Chen welcome inquiries from patients regarding solutions for Gum Disease – contact Metro Dental today (587) 355-2524