Healthy gums support healthy teeth. When your gums are in poor health, your oral health may begin to suffer. Gum disease remains one of the most diagnosed dental concerns. When periodontal disease (gum disease) is left untreated, patients may experience bleeding gums, halitosis, and shifting teeth. In advanced cases of periodontal disease, patients may experience bone and tooth loss.
Patients have a lower chance of developing periodontal disease with proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist. Dr. James Furgurson and Dr. Nathan White can work with you to improve your gum health. At Chapel Hill Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer a wide range of general, preventive, and peritoneal therapy services to address all stages of periodontal disease. For patients who are missing teeth, we offer dental implant, dentures, and dental bridges to restore your smile.
Improving Your Gum Health
- One of the most important aspects of improving your gum health is developing and maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine. Most dentists recommend patients brush their teeth twice a day, floss daily, and finish with an antibacterial mouthwash. Your oral hygiene routine removes bacteria, debris, and plaque from the teeth and gums. Your dentist can work with you to help you to create an oral hygiene routine that works for you.
- Visit the dentist regularly. Patients should visit their dentist at least twice a year for their preventive care exam. During your preventive care exam, your dentist will perform a comprehensive exam, take x-rays, and perform a tooth cleaning. Your preventive care visit allows your dentist to identify any developing oral health concert. Your dentist can create a treatment plan that addresses of your oral health needs. Patients will also receive a tooth cleaning, which is typically performed by a dental hygienist. A dental hygienist will use special tools to remove plaque buildup from the teeth and gums.
- Quit smoking. Recent studies have suggested that smokers are at a higher risk of developing tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. Find ways to quit smoking to improve your
Request An Appointment
Would you like to learn more about improving your gum health? Visit our Chapel Hill dental office. If you need to schedule a routine dental exam, call (919) 213-9767 or request an appointment online.