Did you know that gum disease is actually the leading cause of adult tooth loss? When the gum tissue is unhealthy, it begins to pull away from the teeth, causing them to loosen and, if untreated, eventually fall out. Fortunately the symptoms of gum disease are often reversible, especially if it is detected early and treated properly. In many cases, a thorough dental cleaning is the best way to improve the gums’ health, though more invasive cleaning or periodontal therapy may be necessary if the condition has progressed past its first stage, which is known as gingivitis. If you care about the health or beauty of your smile, keep in mind that taking care of your gums is a great way to protect your pearly whites, as well.

Dental Hygiene Plays a Key Role, So Do Dental Checkups

While brushing your teeth twice a day is a great start to maintaining your oral health, flossing is an equally important aspect of a dental hygiene routine. Most toothbrushes are unable to reach the crevices between teeth, where bacteria are prone to lodge. Flossing helps remove this bacteria, as well as food particles, which can cause bad breath but also inflammation, which is a common symptom of gingivitis. Bleeding while flossing is another common warning sign that gingivitis could have already developed.

Of course, regular dental visits are also essential to maintaining a healthy smile. Most patients need to see their dentist for a checkup and cleaning every six months to prevent oral health problems like gingivitis but also cavities. The longer you wait between appointments, the more likely you are to struggle with oral health issues, which could require more extensive restorative treatment.