The teeth are what most often come to mind, when people consider what they need to care for in order to keep their smiles healthy. After all, the teeth are highly visible, and the trait that many people notice most when they first meet people. Yet the gums are just as important to the overall health of one’s smile. In fact, without healthy gum tissue, tooth loss becomes very likely. Fortunately, gum care isn’t complicated. It just requires that you take some extra preventive dental steps to keep your gum tissue and your teeth in tip-top shape.
Brushing your teeth twice a day helps to remove bacteria from their surface. Unfortunately, bacteria can still lodge in the small crevices in between teeth. There, they can cause irritation, inflammation, and even infection of the gums. When the gums have become infected, it causes the first stage of gum disease, which is known as gingivitis.
To help remove bacteria from these small spaces, flossing is essential. Flossing just once a day can help to greatly protect your smile.
Regular dental cleanings are another great way to protect one’s entire smile. Seeing the dentist at least twice a year helps to remove tartar buildup.
That said, if your gums have already become inflamed, you could find that periodontal therapy is necessary to restore their health. This more extensive form of cleaning helps to remove bacteria along the gumline.
Dr. Dooley can help patients protect both their teeth and gums with preventive dental care. To schedule a checkup and cleaning, call Scott Dooley Dentistry in Garland, TX, today at 972-495-8100. We also proudly serve the residents of Dallas, Richardson, Wylie, Sachse, and all surrounding communities.