Many people associate gum disease with old age; however, in the United States alone, more than 60 percent of teens aged fifteen or older have some form of gum disease. That's a pretty startling statistic, especially for a condition that you can prevent. Gum disease is the result of improper dental care. Twice-daily brushing (or, better yet, brushing after every meal) and once-daily flossing are imperative to warding off gum disease. Equally essential are routine dental visits at least every six months. While brushing and flossing can do a lot to combat gum disease, it can't do it all. We have tools to remove plaque and bacteria that at-home dental care can't remove. If you think you're not susceptible to gum disease even at a young age, think again — gum disease can strike at any age.

Now that you know that gum disease can affect you, you probably want to know what it is. Gum disease is technically known as periodontal disease. It is an infection of the tissues of the mouth and bone that support the teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can cause pain, bad breath, loose teeth or teeth that fall out altogether — and when you lose these teeth, you won't get a visit from the tooth fairy or extra cash in your pocket.

The same habits that prevent cavities — a condition most kids are familiar with — can prevent gum disease as well. The key is diligence with proper dental care for your entire life.

Gum disease is the result of a buildup of plaque that occurs naturally on the teeth and gums. Plaque is an invisible, sticky layer of germs and bacteria that can combine with the foods you eat to create toxic acids that erode the tissues of the mouth, including and, especially, delicate gum tissue. Your gums support the bone that holds your teeth in place; without your gums, your teeth won't stay in to form your gorgeous smile.

Unfortunately, it is a fact of life that the mouth is home to hundreds of types of bacteria. Even after a professional dental cleaning, the bacteria of the mouth begin to re-colonize within 24 hours. This means you have to adhere to high standards of proper dental care and don't miss those routine dental visits, either. Ask us about the most effective ways to prevent gum disease— some individuals may be more susceptible than others, making extra brushing or more frequent visits to the dentist essential to keeping your gums healthy.

Basic Tips for Preventing Gum Disease:

• Brush twice a day with ADA-approved toothpaste, or for better protection, after every meal. If you can't brush, at least try to rinse with water.
• Rinse after brushing with a mouthwash. Swish and gargle thoroughly for at least 60 seconds.
• Floss at least once daily, making certain to reach all areas of the mouth.
• Visit us at least twice per year or every six months.

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Call BLUSH Dental Studio today at (404) 445-6100 or request an appointment online. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice.

At BLUSH Dental Studio — the dental practice of East Point dentist Dr. Kisha Carter, we believe that having a healthy and beautiful smile helps you live a better life. As a result, we offer you and your family a unique dental experience by providing modern, compassionate and affordable comprehensive dental care. Contact us today or request a convenient appointment online. We look forward to welcoming you to BLUSH Dental Studio and helping you achieve your optimal smile and oral health.