Give Your Teeth a Happy Home with Gum Care!
How Orthodontics & Gum Health Go Hand in Hand
September is National Gum Care Month, so we would like to take a minute to reiterate the importance of gum health and how vital it is to properly care for your gums before, throughout, and beyond your orthodontic treatment.
The Dangers of Poor Gum Care
When you don’t follow a proper brushing and flossing regimen, the consequences can range from painful and inconvenient to catastrophic. As plaque and tartar build up at the base of your teeth, your gums can be irritated, leading to gingivitis. Painful and unpleasant, gingivitis is characterized by swollen, inflamed, bleeding gums and bad breath. And if gingivitis isn’t addressed, periodontitis, a serious gum disease, can develop. According to the CDC, “about 4 in 10 US adults 30 years or older had a mild, moderate, or severe level of periodontitis.” Since periodontal diseases can cause bone and tooth loss, proper gum care is essential.
The Relationship Between Gum Health & Orthodontics
Gum care is important for people of all ages, regardless of whether they are currently straightening their teeth. However, healthy gums are essential for orthodontics because the treatment depends on strong bones and teeth. During treatment, pressure is put on the teeth and gums as the teeth are slowly moved into place. If gum decay isn’t addressed before treatment, this process can actually lead to more damage.
Fortunately, Adirondack Orthodontics can help you understand how to care for your teeth and gums – before, during, and after your orthodontic treatment.
The Right Gum Care Routine
If you’ve already started your orthodontic journey, you have likely already learned from our team members how to keep your mouth healthy throughout your treatment. Whether or not you are currently undergoing orthodontic treatment, you should follow the same rules: brush your teeth after eating and floss daily to remove food and prevent plaque buildup.
At Adirondack Orthodontics, we are always here to act as a resource for our patients. If you would like to find out if you’re the right candidate for orthodontic treatment or learn more about how you can take care of your gums, schedule an appointment at your nearest location. We look forward to helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. Call or text us today!
