The best way to prevent gum disease and cavities is to keep bacteria in the mouth to a minimum. Of course, brushing and flossing are important. But, many people do not realize how crowded and crooked teeth can contribute to the growth of oral bacteria.

When teeth are jammed against one another, they create crooks and crevices that are ideal hiding spots for bacteria. These areas are typically more difficult to clean and provide a haven for the accumulation and reproduction of bacteria.

As a Periodontist, I work in unison with a number of Orthodontists. As the Orthodontist straightens teeth, I tend to gum health to help the patient achieve and maintain a healthy smile.

If you have crowded and/or crooked teeth, use extra measures during brushing and flossing to ensure optimal cleaning in those areas. Ideally, you will want to consult with an Orthodontist to determine what is needed to realign your teeth for an attractive, healthy, natural smile.

Call (828) 274-9440 to learn more about maintaining healthy gums while in orthodontic treatment.

As a Periodontist, I see the destruction that sugar can do to teeth and gum tissues. Most any form of sugar is an ideal food for oral bacteria. Yet, a sugar alcohol named Xylitol actually inhibits bacteria growth that can contribute to cavities.  It is primarily used as a sweetener in chewing gum, mouthwash and some toothpastes.

An added benefit of chewing gum with Xylitol is its ability to increase saliva flow. Saliva is the mouth’s cleansing agent when brushing isn’t possible. Its flow helps to move oral bacteria out of the mouth, which can lower the bacteria that attack teeth and oral tissues.

The goal is to keep oral bacteria at a minimal level. When brushing after meals isn’t possible, chewing gum or rinsing with products containing Xylitol is a wise alternative.

While your six-month cleanings and exams remove plaque and tartar, many people fail to have an effective routine at home. When a thorough regimen of oral hygiene at home twice daily is not followed, the potential to develop early stage gum disease increases greatly. This can result in symptoms of gum disease before the next visit rolls around.

Gingivitis is the first level of gum disease. This is when bacterial accumulation develops to the point of showing obvious signs of damage to oral tissues. These signs include frequent bad breath, tender gums and gums that bleed easily when brushing. As oral bacteria reproduce, gingivitis will develop into periodontal disease. This occurs when oral bacteria are reproducing at a rampant rate and damaging gum tissues at a more destructive level.

The good news, however, is you CAN reverse the progress of gingivitis before it moves to a deeper level that is more time-consuming and expensive to treat. As soon as you notice signs (as mentioned above), begin a twice-a-day regimen of brushing your teeth a minimum of two minutes, flossing daily, swishing after brushing with an oral rinse and either using a tongue scraper or brushing the tongue to remove embedded bacteria.

Additionally, increase your water intake. A moist mouth supports the cleansing effects of saliva. Avoid or greatly limit between-meal snacking and minimize your intake of sugary foods and beverages.

With proper measures, you should begin to see symptoms subside in a few days. However, that doesn’t mean you should back off! Continue this regimen to maintain a healthy mouth and control bacterial buildup. And be sure to keep your regular hygiene appointments. Those visits will help you have a ‘clean slate’ twice a year so you can avoid problems in the first place.

Once you are in the routine of this oral hygiene commitment, you’ll find it takes very little time and the payoff is well worth it! If you haven’t had regular dental check-ups and feel your gum health needs more than what home care can provide, call us at (828) 274-9440 for an appointment. Gum disease only worsens without treatment and early treatment can save you time and money.

Fortunately, many of today’s dentists are more sensitive to patient concerns when it comes to dental fear and anxiety. Most understand the need to be communicative before and during procedures, take ample time during numbing procedures and offer options to enhance comfort. However, for those who are ages 50 and over, memories of a traumatic experience in the past can remain embedded for decades. These memories can interfere or even prevent people from receiving the care they need to enjoy a healthy, confident smile.

For those who’ve avoided regular dental care because of fear, your smile isn’t the only thing that takes the brunt of its effects. Not having regular dental cleanings and check-ups places you at a higher risk for gum disease. This destroys gum tissue, teeth and supporting bones. It also increases your risk for more severe health problems. The bacteria of gum disease can enter the bloodstream through tears in oral tissues, triggering inflammatory reactions elsewhere in the body. It has been attributed to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, preterm babies and impotency.

We are committed to helping you achieve a healthy smile while instilling a sense of trust. The LAST thing we want is for you to feel uncomfortable! Begin by arranging a consultation appointment. This way, I can answer your questions thoroughly and discuss comfort options to help you relax.

Your smile should be a positive part of your health, appearance and self-confidence. Don’t let an unfortunate experience from your past keep you from the terrific smile you deserve! Call (828) 274-9440 to speak to our caring phone staff.