Gum disease is a serious concern that can have wide-ranging effects on the health of your mouth and body. It is caused by a group of bacteria that stick to the tooth under the gum line between the teeth. This film (plaque) is a biofilm with many layers containing different species of bacteria and their by-products. If the biofilm (plaque) is not disrupted regularly it becomes more organized and the body begins to make chemicals in response to it. These chemicals break down gum tissue and bone. Preventing gum disease involves disrupting the biofilm's organization on all surfaces of the teeth at the gum line.
Periodontal Treatment (Gum Care)
What can cause gum disease?
- Genetic predisposition for periodontal disease
- Poor home care (thorough daily brushing and flossing)
- Lack of professional cleanings and monitoring
- Lifestyle habits such as tobacco use
Halitosis Treatment (Bad Breath Care)
Bad breath is estimated to affect 1 in 4 people. The most common cause of halitosis is bad oral hygiene. We highly recommend to our patients to brush and floss their teeth twice a day for two minutes. We also recommend maintaining regular check-ups so we can determine the underlying cause of the bad breath.
Tips to maintain fresh breath:
- Maintain good dental hygiene — brushing the teeth, gums and tongue at least twice per day and floss once per day
- Use a tongue scraper, cleaning as far back on the tongue as possible
- Increase water consumption
- Visit your dentist at least twice per year for a professional cleaning and exam
- Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugarless candy
- Eat foods like raw carrots and celery