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Answers to Questions is Reason to Smile Why is preventive care important?
The best way to avoid dental problems is proper home care everyday, regular dental visits, and preventive hygiene care. Detecting problems early saves you suffering, saves dollars and saves time and prevents more serious problems from developing. What is periodontal (gum) disease?
Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection in which bateria attack the tissues that surround and support teeth. Simply put, it is an infection that can result in tooth loss if not treated. Because it is often painless, you may not be aware that you have a problem until your gums and bone are seriously affected. The good news is that periodontal diseases often can be prevented or treated in the early stages with a treatment call scaling and root planing.
Click Here to Learn More What are the warning signs?
See your dentist and hygienist if you notice any of the following warning signs:
- gums that bleed easily
- red, swollen or tender gums
- gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- pus between the teeth and gums when the gums are pressed
- persistent bad breath or bad taste
- permanent teeth that are loose or spreading
- any changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- any changes in the fit of partial dentures
Click Here to Learn More What is plaque? calculus?
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that clings to teeth and gums. Even if you brush and clean between your teeth everyday, you may not completely remove plaque, especially around the gum line. The bacteria in plaque create toxins that injure the gums and underlying bone. Over time, these toxins can destroy gum and bone tissue. Plaque that is not removed completely every 24 to 48 hours hardens into a rough, porous deposit called tartar or calculus. Once tartar develops, the only way to remove it is by having your teeth cleaned at a dental office. Tartar that builds up below (under) the gum line makes it more difficult to remove the film of plaque. This can lead to chronic inflammation and infection. Periodontal (gum) diseases are progressive - if left untreated, the condition will worsen.
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Click Here to Learn More Do adults still need fluoride?
Click Here to Learn More What does a dental hygienist do?
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