Dentists are always discussing the importance of good oral health habits to avoid the development of cavities and gum disease. But what is gum disease, and how does it affect the smile? How do you reduce the risk of periodontal disease? And how can it be diagnosed and treated if it develops? Drs. Zach Korwin and Gary Toubman of Cedar Mountain Dental in Newington, CT are pleased to offer patients services to achieve and maintain healthy smiles free from decay and disease.
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection that starts in the gum tissues and can progress to the point where it affects the gums, bones, and teeth. This condition is 100% preventable. Once it has developed, it can only be maintained and not cured, so prevention is key!
How do you reduce the risk of developing gum disease?
The team of Cedar Mountain Dental encourage patients to follow a few simple rules to ensure that they keep their smile healthy and free from disease:
- Brush and floss after every meal. Brushing away sugars, acids, and food particles after each meal will ensure that the teeth stay healthy and clean. Additionally, flossing should be done at least once a day to address bacteria and food that can become stuck between the teeth in the smile.
- Visit the dentist for routine evaluations. The American Dental Association recommends that patients visit their dentist every six months for a cleaning and evaluation. Early detection of periodontal disease improves the chances of getting the smile back to health quickly and affordably without permanent, negative consequences.
- Call the dentist when problems arise. As soon as patients see signs of a problem such as bleeding when brushing their teeth or a toothache, they need to make an appointment with their dentist for treatment.
How is periodontal disease diagnosed?
The dentist will look for common signs of gum disease when patients come in for their routine evaluations. Drs. Zach Korwin and Gary Toubman will look for:
- Bleeding gums
- Red, swollen gum tissues
- Pockets between teeth and gums
- Loose teeth
- Complaints of persistent bad breath
Request an appointment at Cedar Mountain Dental
If you live in Newington, CT and are interested in discussing the benefits of good oral health habits, contact Drs. Zach Korwin and Gary Toubman today at (860) 667-2600. We are always accepting new patients and families into our state-of-the-art dental facility offering comprehensive dental care.