You may expect your dentist to concentrate their attention on your teeth during a preventive dental appointment, but they have other responsibilities. The condition of your teeth will obviously be a priority, but they also need to examine you for signs of gum disease. If gum disease is left unaddressed, your periodontal tissue can eventually suffer serious problems, and you could lose teeth. Swollen or red tissue can be a sign that you are dealing with gum disease, as can a receding gum line, or a sensitivity that causes bleeding when you clean your teeth. Your gum tissue is affected by the bacteria that gather on your teeth, so good oral health habits can help you stay clear of this condition.
Complications From Gum Disease Can Lead To The Loss Of Teeth
Serious gum disease will damage the soft tissue and bone that provide necessary support for teeth. If enough of those tissues are damaged, your dentist may have to extract teeth – or they could be lost on their own. Detection and treatment of gum disease is important. The problem is easier to treat in the early stages, but restoring your oral health when you have serious gum disease can be more challenging.
How Preventive Dental Care Helps You Keep Your Smile In Top Shape
Staying on top of your preventive dental care will help you keep your smile looking its best, while also limiting your problems with gum disease and tooth decay. Part of your preventive strategy should include seeing your dentist for checkups. With the oversight from these regular visits, your dentist can find any problems that have developed, and perform the needed restorative dental work before something turns more severe.