Keeping our gums healthy is just as important as keeping
our teeth healthy. That's why its important to know how to keep
our gums healthy.
What is gum disease?
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease (periodontal disease)
You may notice the gums swell up, turn red in color, and may bleed.
Periodontal disease results in the following:
Inflammation of the gums
Gums can pull away from the teeth or loosen
Gums feel tender when touched
Bad breathy
Pain while chewing
A change in your bite and teeth structure
Periodontal disease is seen mostly in adults.
Early prevention of periodontal disease and gingivitis in kids is important.
Excerpt from the CDC:
A recent CDC report1 provides the following data related to prevalence of periodontitis in the U.S.:
47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease.
Periodontal disease increases with age, 70.1% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease.
This condition is more common in men than women (56.4% vs 38.4%), those living below the federal poverty level (65.4%), those with less than a high school education (66.9%), and current smokers (64.2%)
Preventive measures can include:
brushing the teeth properly
choosing the right toothpaste
flossing daily
taking care when rinsing out the mouth
using mouthwash
having regular dental checkups
stopping smoking - Adults and teens only
5 easy ways to keep the gums healthy
1. Brush the teeth properly
with the following:
Brush your teeth twice a day
Gentle Short strokes, 45 degree angle strokes,
Circular, up and down and side to side Strokes
Every 3-4 months - replace the toothbrush
Don't forget to get the back and front of the teeth
2. Choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste
There are many sizes of toothbrushes and toothpastes
made for kids. Look for the ADA seal of approval and
check to ensure that the toothpaste has fluoride.
3. Floss Daily
Removing food particles and plaque can
seem like a daunting task.
Fortunately, flossing can help with that.
tartar can develop if we do not floss.
Tartar is a hardened buildup of bacteria.
This can lead to gum disease.
So let's not forget to floss.
4. Mouthwash is your friend
Mouthwash can be used for kids but it is suggested
for kids 6 years old and up.
Mouthwash can help with the following:
Remove left over food particles
Slows down tartar buildup
Plaque reduction
Prevent gum disease
Although mouthwash can help with these,
it is important to note that it is not meant to
replace brushing your teeth and flossing
5. Regular dentist visits/checkups
At a typical dental checkup you may spend time
with the hygienist. Professional dental cleanings
help to remove tartar and can help to eliminate plaque.
Early signs of gingivitis, gum disease or any other
infections can be detected.
Looking for the best kids dentist near the Paterson,
Passaic, and Union City areas?
We are here serving Paterson, Passaic, and Hudson NJ,
Dover NJ, and the surrounding communities.
We offer comprehensive oral health
services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency treatment.
We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment
to keep all members of the family comfortable in the office.
Paterson (973) 742-4200
Passaic ( 973) 574-1000
Union City (201) 325-8444
Dover (973) 891-4015
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or give us a call
