September is National Gum Health Month. It’s a great time to remind you how important it is to keep your gums in great shape. Unfortunately, gum disease is a common problem. According to the CDC, about half of Americans over 30 have some form of the disease. The number increases to 70 percents in adults 65 and older. 

The good news is, it’s easy to treat in its early stages. If you suspect your gums need attention, you should call us ASAP at 508-484-8411. We typically use a two-part treatment called scaling and root planing. First, we remove bacteria from around and under your gums. Then we smooth your tooth roots to keep bacteria from returning. We may also recommend a topical antibiotic. 

There are lots of good reasons to get gum treatment:

  • Your Gums Will Look Better – Gum disease affects how your smile looks. Instead of a healthy pink color, your gums will look red. As the disease progresses, your gums start receding. This can reveal your tooth roots. This looks unattractive. It also makes you more prone to cavities and increases your sensitivity to hot and cold substances. 
  • It’ll Be Easy to Brush and Floss Again – Diseased gums may bleed and feel tender. This makes it uncomfortable to brush and floss. Treatment makes it easy to take good care of your teeth again. 
  • Your Breath Will Smell Better – Chronic bad breath is another common symptom of gum disease. This obviously makes you feel self-conscious in your social interactions. After treatment, your breath will improve and your confidence will return. 
  • You’ll Avoid Tooth and Bone Loss – Advanced gum disease can destroy bone and other tissues supporting the teeth. In fact, it’s the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. No one wants to lose teeth! It’s important to treat the disease before it gets to that stage.
  • Your Overall Health Will Be Better – Infection in the gums has been linked to numerous adverse health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and premature birth. 

The best way to avoid gum disease is with daily brushing and flossing. Make sure you brush along your gumline to remove bacteria from there. Visit our South Attleboro, MA office at least once every six months for professional cleanings. These cleanings remove the bacteria you may have missed at home before it can cause any serious issues. 

To schedule your next cleaning or to have our dentists look at your gums, call Miller Lung Dental Group today at 508-484-8411. You can also schedule online.