4 Things to Do During National Gum Disease Awareness Month

When you think of February, you probably think of the color red. After all, it’s the color of love and Valentine’s Day… and gum disease? That’s right, February is also National Gum Disease Awareness Month. Gum disease is estimated to affect more than half of the adult population of the United States at some point in their lives. So, let’s talk about a few things you can do to keep from needing gum disease treatment in Springfield.

1. Learn the Warning Signs

Unfortunately, gum disease usually doesn’t display very many prominent symptoms in the early days. Still, report any of the following signs to your dentist right away:

• Bleeding gums in Springfield when brushing and flossing
• Red, swollen, puffy, or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath that doesn’t respond to your oral hygiene routine
• A constant unpleasant taste in your mouth
• Gums that pull away from your teeth, making your teeth appear “longer”
• Teeth that feel loose
• Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Sensitive teeth
• Pain when chewing or biting down

2. Brush and Floss Every Day

Since it’s February, the time for New Year’s resolutions might be long over, but that doesn’t mean you can’t try to implement some positive change into your routine. Set an alarm every morning and every night to brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. It may also help to set a separate alarm to floss every evening. Alternatively, you could place your floss on your pillow every day. That way you’re reminded to do it every night before bed.

3. Eat a Mouth-Healthy Diet

Cavities aren’t the only risk of eating a diet high in sugar. The more sugar you consume, the more plaque eventually builds up on your teeth and along your gumline. Bacteria in plaque may then irritate your gum tissue, resulting in gum disease.

Replace sugary drinks with water, and sweet treats with fresh fruits and vegetables. Every time you feel the urge to munch on something sweet, pop in a piece of sugar-free gum instead. It will satisfy your craving while also stimulating the production of saliva, which cleans your teeth!

4. See Your Dentist Regularly

As mentioned earlier, gum disease may or may not even show symptoms at first. That’s why you should visit your dentist in Springfield every six months at least. At these appointments, the dentist can diagnose early signs of gum disease while treatment is still relatively easy and inexpensive. The dental hygienist can also rid your teeth of built-up plaque that might contribute to gum disease in the future.

February is about more than finding the perfect gift for your significant other. It should also be about keeping your gums as healthy as possible!

About the Author

Dr. Matt VanderMolen has been serving the dental needs of the Springfield, IL community for more than 30 years. He has achieved a Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry and takes more than 100 hours of continuing education courses every year. His practice, Advanced Dental Care of Springfield, offers dental deep cleanings to treat gum disease. If you think you may have gum disease, contact Dr. VanderMolen’s office at (217) 546-3333.