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As the leaves begin to change this fall, it’s time to focus on an often-overlooked aspect of your oral health: your gums. September marks National Gum Care Month, making it the perfect opportunity to prioritize your gum health and take meaningful steps toward healthier gums in Seal Beach.
Dr. Stacey Lowman wants to help you understand why gum care deserves your attention and how simple changes can make a dramatic difference in your oral health.
Your gums are the foundation of your smile, yet many people don’t realize how crucial they are to overall health. Healthy gums do more than just hold your teeth in place – they protect against infection, support your bite, and even impact your general well-being. When gums become diseased, the consequences can extend far beyond your mouth.
Call us today at 562-374-7824 to schedule a dental exam.
Understanding Gum Disease: The Silent Threat
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is one of the most common health problems affecting adults. It begins quietly with gingivitis, where gums become red, swollen, and bleed easily during brushing or flossing. Many people dismiss these early warning signs as normal, but they’re actually your body’s cry for help.
If left untreated, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, a more serious condition where bacteria destroy the tissues and bone that support your teeth. This advanced stage can lead to tooth loss, persistent bad breath, and even increase your risk of heart disease, diabetes complications, and stroke.
The good news is that gum disease is largely preventable with proper care and professional treatment. Recognizing the signs early and taking action can save your smile and protect your overall health.
Prevention: Your First Line of Defense
Preventing gum disease starts with understanding what causes it. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth, is the main culprit. When plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.
The key to prevention lies in disrupting this process before it causes damage. This means maintaining excellent daily oral hygiene habits and staying consistent with your routine. Even a few days of neglect can allow harmful bacteria to multiply and irritate your gums.
Risk factors like smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes, and certain medications can increase your chances of developing gum disease. If any of these apply to you, extra attention to gum care becomes even more important.
Daily Hygiene: Simple Steps for Healthy Gums
Building a gum-friendly daily routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with brushing your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to the gumline, where plaque tends to accumulate most.
Flossing daily is equally important, as it removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. If traditional floss feels difficult to use, consider water flossers or interdental brushes as alternatives.
Adding an antimicrobial mouthwash to your routine can help reduce bacteria and freshen your breath. Look for products specifically designed for gum health, and use them as directed for best results.
Don’t forget about your diet’s impact on gum health. Foods rich in vitamin C, like citrus fruits and leafy greens, support healthy gums. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks that feed harmful bacteria in your mouth.
Professional Periodontal Treatment Options
When gum disease does develop, professional treatment becomes necessary to restore health. Dr. Lowman offers comprehensive periodontal care tailored to your specific needs and the severity of your condition.
For early-stage gum disease, professional cleanings and scaling may be sufficient to remove plaque and tartar buildup. More advanced cases might require deep cleaning procedures like root planing, which smooths tooth roots to help gums reattach properly.
Take Action This Fall
This National Gum Care Month, don’t wait to address your gum health concerns. The cooler fall weather makes it an ideal time to establish new healthy habits and commit to better oral care routines.
Ready to take the next step toward healthier gums in Seal Beach? Call Stacey L. Lowman, DDS today at 562-374-7824 to schedule your comprehensive gum health evaluation. You can also make an appointment online if you prefer.