A picture of a young happy woman using dental floss in the bathroomHaving a beautiful smile is a goal that many individuals have, but keep in mind that having a healthy smile can mean something different. As a matter of fact, your oral health can be affected by a number of concerns – some cosmetic and many functional or structural. Indeed, problems such as decay and infection have the capacity to threaten your entire grin’s appearance and function, and without proper treatment, it can lead to tooth loss. In today’s blog, your Cedar Rapids, IA dentist takes a look at problems that arise from gum disease and what you can do to protect your grin.

The Dangers of Bacteria

Periodontal disease is one of the most common oral concerns there are, affecting roughly 3 million U.S. adults every year. This phenomenon involves harmful oral bacteria wreaking havoc on your smile by making their way beneath the gum line and latching on to the roots of your teeth. Here, they may remain relatively protected, and create a buildup of plaque and tartar.

Without proper treatment, you will begin to experience significant complications. These include bleeding or inflamed gums, separation of structures from the tissues that contain them, and ultimately even tooth loss. To ensure the health of your smile, it is always better to act sooner rather than later, and our team may be able to help during your routine examination.

Part of Your Dental Examination

It can be difficult to discern the effects of periodontal disease in its earliest stages. What’s more, you may not be aware that there is even a problem to begin with. Because of this, disease and infections are often not caught until they have spread and already begun causing damage to your smile. Fortunately, staying on top of your routine preventive care can help you achieve the treatment you need.

When you come in for your dental checkup, our team will take care to investigate your mouth and oral structures for any signs of damage or harm. This includes checking the teeth, gums, cheeks, and tongue for problems such as abnormalities, decay, oral cancer, and signs of periodontitis. From here, we will work with you to determine the best treatment plan and course of action accordingly. To schedule your next appointment with our team, give us a call today.

Doing Your Part

In addition to your routine checkup, you can lend a hand in maintaining your oral health through preventive dental care at home. This involves brushing at least twice a day, as well as making sure to floss. After all, food particles that are lodged between teeth attract these bacteria, and flossing can help prevent their potential destruction.

Schedule Your Appointment

For more information about the dangers of periodontitis or to schedule your appointment with our team, contact Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA by calling 319-364-7108 today.