The skilled general dentists at Confident Smile Dental in West Hempstead, NY, want you to be aware of periodontal disease. Keeping up with regular cleaning appointments is your best defense against tooth decay and gum disease. It's important to visit the dentist and be examined because you can develop gum disease without ever having obvious symptoms.

Gum disease happens when a sticky film full of bacteria called plaque builds up on the tooth. If plaque isn't removed it hardens and forms into tartar. Tartar cannot be brushed away and needs to be removed by a dental professional. When plaque and tartar build up on the gum line, the bacteria irritate the gums and can cause them to pull away from the teeth. This allows even bigger pockets of bacteria to form. Infection can damage tissue and bone in the area, contributing to tooth loss.

Gum disease can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Call us in West Hempstead, NY, to make an appointment if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Gums that are red and swollen
• Gums that bleed easily (like when brushing)
• Persistent bad breath
• Pus in between the gums and teeth
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• Loose teeth
  
  

To prevent gum disease at home, keep up with your oral hygiene routine. Your dentist will recommend brushing for two minutes twice a day and flossing at least once a day. A great brushing and flossing routine can remove plaque before it hardens and forms into tartar.

If you do have gum disease, your dentist can help with a procedure called scaling and root planing. This is a targeted cleaning procedure for the surfaces of your teeth. All plaque and tartar are removed, and if necessary the surface of the tooth along the gumline is sculpted so the gums can grow back around the teeth in a healthy way.

Confident Smile Dental wants to help protect you and your family from gum disease. Regular cleanings and exams are important to prevent gum disease but don't hesitate to contact us if you notice any symptoms. Call us for an appointment in West Hempstead, NY, at (516) 564-9444.