Periodontal disease, often referred to as gum disease, is an infection and inflammation of your gum tissues. It is primarily caused by the bacterial presence of hardened tartar at the gum line. Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease. Common symptoms include red or otherwise inflamed gums that often bleed easily when brushing and flossing and could also include issues with chronic bad breath.
If gingivitis isn’t improved through your regular dental checkup at C.R. (Chip) Edwards, Jr., D.D.S. and improvements to your daily oral hygiene routine, it can lead to serious complications. In time it could even develop into the more dangerous form of gum disease known as periodontitis.
This infection deep in the gum tissues, causes your gums to slowly pull back from the base of your teeth forming pockets of infection to form near the roots of your teeth. Left unchecked periodontitis can even result in a loss of bone structure in the part of your jaw that anchors your teeth.
Brushing and flossing your teeth twice each day, will help to clean away residual plaque and food particles. It’s worth noting that an effective flossing technique is more than simply running a strand of dental floss, casually between two teeth.
An effective flossing technique starts by wrapping excess floss around your middle fingers. Then firmly grip a small section of floss between your thumb and index fingers. Work the floss around your teeth in a U shape and gently clear the space between the teeth and your gum line. Make sure you also floss behind your back teeth.
If you are concerned about gum disease or your fear your flossing technique needs help, you should call Dr. C.R. (Chip) Edwards, Jr.’s office in Sanford, Florida at (407) 322.6052 to set up an appointment.