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How Periodontal Therapy in Southlake Can Save Your Gums

September 14, 2018

Filed under: Uncategorized — drpettigrew @ 2:37 pm

woman showing pink spot on gumsSeptember has been set aside as National Gum Care Awareness Month, so your local dentist reminds you to take the necessary steps to prevent gum (periodontal) disease, a condition that over 75% of adult Americans suffer from. As you read on, you’ll learn what some of the symptoms of this disease are and what you can do to prevent it.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is the result of bacteria growth that has begun to seep beneath the gumline and settle into the pockets. As the condition develops, it can cause swelling, redness, puffiness and tenderness. People who suffer from this condition will notice that their gums bleed easily as well.

The earliest stage of the disease is called gingivitis, and if not treated, it will progress to its more advanced form – periodontitis, which can result in the connective tissues and bone being destroyed and the roots dissolved. Thankfully, these problems can be prevented.

Simple Steps for Prevention

One of the goals of National Gum Care Awareness Month is to drive home the importance of being proactive about gum health. By following some simple suggestions, you won’t have to worry about any flare-ups in the future.

Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene

Your oral hygiene habits are important because they provide ways to constantly police your oral cavity to decrease the number of harmful bacteria. Although they are always present, bacteria cling to leftover food particles in your mouth and use them as sustenance. Therefore, when you brush and floss your teeth at least two times a day, you are wiping out a source of food for the bacteria and making it harder for them to survive.

Monitor What You Consume

Another tip for protecting your gums is to watch what you eat and drink. Bacteria love sugars, so if you are consuming large quantities, then you’re helping to create a more acidic environment, which is what bacteria thrive in.

If you have a sweet tooth, you can choose fruit to satisfy it instead of candy and other sugary snacks. You can also substitute fruit-infused water for sodas. These healthier options will do wonders to protect your gums.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Your ally in your quest for the best oral health possible is your dentist in Southlake. That’s why it’s important to visit every six months for preventive care. While there, you’ll receive a thorough cleaning, which not only protects your teeth but your gums as well. Additionally, the dentist will examine your mouth to make sure there are no threats to your oral health. If any are discovered, then he or she can guide you back to optimal health with non-surgical periodontal therapy, which incorporates the safest yet most effective antibiotics available.

The combination of everything listed here helps to fortify and protect your gums. To get the professional help you need, simply reach out to your dentist to schedule a visit today.

About the Author

Dr. J. Lee Pettigrew earned his dental degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. He has since gone on to provide the Southlake area with nearly three decades of expert care. In his quest to stay current with the latest advances in the world of dentistry, Dr. Pettigrew takes hours of continuing education annually and maintains membership in several professional organizations. He helps patients protect their gums every month of the year at his private practice, and he can be reached for more information through his website.

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