Happy National Gum Care Month!
This month, the dentistry world is observing National Gum Care Month! We’re excited to provide information about how you can take care of your gums and avoid seeing our lovely staff unnecessarily.
First, let’s consider the threats to our health related to poor gum care. According to the CDC’s website, improper treatment of our gums can lead to periodontal disease, which is often caused by “infections and inflammation of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth.” A CDC study found that “47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older [in the United States] have some form of periodontal disease” and suggested that “periodontal disease increases with age, [as] 70.1% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease.” The uplifting news is that avoiding disease related to gum care is easy.
Taking care of your gums doesn’t have to be an arduous chore. Consider these tips from Dr. Palmer and her team at Oak Bark Dental:
- Brush and floss twice each day: You’ve heard this before from our office! Regular brushing and flossing will help to ensure a healthy smile and happy gums.
- Replace your toothbrush every three months: The bristles on toothbrushes don’t last forever, of course. Be sure to replace your toothbrush (or the head of your electronic brush) four times per year. Doing so will help maximize the effectiveness of your brushing efforts.
- See your dentist twice per year: Routine cleanings, fluoride treatments, and regular check-ups go a long way in ensuring the health of your gums.
You may have started reading this post in hopes of learning techniques behind how to care for your chewing gum, but that’s not the spirit behind National Gum Care Month! We encourage you to practice these straightforward gum-care habits and encourage your family to do the same. In the event you have any gum bleeding, soreness, or discomfort around your gums, be sure to contact Dr. Palmer and her team today.
Happy National Gum Care Month, everyone!
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Our dentists and team take continuing education classes and courses to stay up-to-date on technology and techniques that allows Oak Bark Dental to assist you with all of your dental health needs.