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Gum has been around for thousands of years in various forms. Today, there are plenty of myths and facts about whether it’s good or bad for you. We’re here to lay the claims to rest and give you the information you’ve been looking for.

Gum originally came from the sap of spruce or chicle trees. People chewed it for the same reasons they chew gum today: as something enjoyable to put in the mouth and to pass the time.

Modern chewing gum, though, isn’t quite what it used to be. It’s made mostly from synthetic rubbers and artificial flavorings, meaning that it has some potential health risks that weren’t associated with original gum chewing. In fact, it’s full of plenty of ingredients that you probably didn’t know you were putting into your mouth.

• “Gum” – a rubbery base that makes the product chewy
• Resin – used to strengthen gum and make it last longer
• Fillers – what gives gum a particular texture (ex: calcium carbonate, talc)
• Preservatives – compounds that make gum have a stable shelf life (ex: butylated hydroxytoluene or BHT)
• Softeners – substances that keep gum from hardening (ex: wax, paraffin, vegetable oil)
• Sweeteners – natural sugar, corn syrup, sugar alcohols, or artificial sweeteners such as aspartame
• Flavorings – natural or artificial flavorings

All of these ingredients are considered food grade and deemed “safe” by the FDA; however, they aren’t often labeled well and sometimes appear as a simple “gum base” ingredient. You should decide for yourself whether or not you want to consume the ingredients in chewing gum.

Certain experts deem chewing gum to have benefits for the mouth, such as:

• Preventing cavities – Sugar-free gum can help prevent tooth decay, especially when it’s sweetened with xylitol.
• Reducing bad breath – Xylitol prevents bad bacteria growth, which is a common cause of bad breath.

It can also have negative side effects though, including:

• Causing cavities – If you chew gum with added sugar, this can be a cause of cavities.
• Plaque buildup – Sugar is dissolved by bad bacteria in your mouth, which increases plaque growth.
• Metabolic conditions – Too much sugar, even in the form of gum, can cause diabetes, obesity, and other health issues.
• Jaw problems – People who chew gum all day long often develop TMJ, or temporomandibular disorder, which causes pain, tightness, and immobility of the jaw.
• Headaches and teeth grinding – Gum chewing can also cause tension headaches and migraines, which can cause jaw clenching and teeth grinding.

Chewing gum here and there, especially when it’s sugar-free and made with natural ingredients, typically won’t harm your teeth. Chewing healthy gum in moderation can even help prevent cavities and rid the mouth of bad bacteria. However, if you’re choosing gums full of artificial ingredients and sugar—and chewing them from sun-up to sun-down—then it could mean a range of dental problems, such as cavities, plaque buildup, tooth decay, and jaw disorders, or even more serious metabolic disorders.

Choose your gum carefully and remember—everything in moderation.

Dealing with yellowing teeth is a common issue for many people. Teeth can become discolored from smoking, food and drink stains, or plaque and tartar buildup. However, sometimes people notice that just one tooth is discolored when the rest around them are their normal shade. What causes this, and what can be done about it?

Tooth decay often happens when the enamel (the hard, protective coating on the outside of your teeth) starts to erode. When this is gone, it’s more likely that plaque can stick to your teeth (and plaque is filled with bacteria).

If you see a dark spot on one tooth, this can be a sign of many other things, too, such as:

• Cavities – Cavities that are left untreated can cause brown, yellow, or black spots on a tooth.
• Tooth decay – Teeth will turn gray, brown, or black if the pulp inside has died.
• Injury – Trauma to teeth can damage the nerves, which can cause spots or whole-tooth discoloration.
• Tartar buildup – When plaque isn’t removed, it turns into tartar, which stains teeth and can be difficult to remove.
• Fluorosis (excess fluoride) – Sometimes children receive too much fluoride during the time that their teeth are forming. This can cause fluorosis, which can result in tooth discoloration.
• Celiac disease – Celiac disease (gluten intolerance) can cause wear and tear on teeth enamel, which in turn causes brown spots on the teeth.
• Overuse of antibiotics – Certain antibiotics, mainly tetracycline and doxycycline, can cause discolored teeth. This typically happens in children who took these medications regularly while their permanent teeth were forming, but it can also be caused when the mother took them during pregnancy.
• Tartar buildup -Single-tooth discoloration can also be caused by tartar buildup. Tartar is hardened plaque, and it often presents as yellow or brown, usually by the gumline.
• Chlorhexidine mouthwash – This type of mouthwash is prescribed for people with halitosis or chronic bad breath. Although it kills the bad bacteria which cause bad breath, it can cause brown spots on the teeth.

Usually, when only one tooth is discolored (i.e., yellow, gray, or brown) and there aren’t spots on the surrounding teeth, it can signify a root issue. Check with your dentist and get an x-ray to determine if there are issues underneath your gums that are causing single teeth to become discolored. If the pulp inside your teeth dies and has caused your tooth to turn brown, you’ll probably need a root canal.

Many people also notice that their teeth become spotty with age. This is sometimes a result of a few factors, such as enamel wearing down over time, darkening dentin (the substance underneath enamel that surrounds each tooth), and years of stains from food and drink.

Check your teeth carefully for spots and make sure that you’re staying up on dentist visits twice a year. If you notice that one tooth is discolored compared to the rest, don’t ignore it! Treating the issue early can mean saving your tooth and preventing further damage.

Dental treatments and options for taking care of your oral health have evolved a great deal over the years. One of the best new tools is a water flosser, or an oral irrigator. These are handheld devices that look similar to electric toothbrushes. They are meant to be used in addition to a toothbrush and regular flossing as a very effective way of removing bacteria, plaque, food particles, and gum-disease-causing elements.

Water flossers use—you guessed it—water to get all those pesky germs out of the crevices of your teeth and from beneath the gum line. They concentrate on the areas of your mouth that brushing just can’t get to.

There are many types of water flossers, each with benefits that work well for different lifestyles.

• Countertop water flossers – These can be a bit bulky and heavy, but they’re easy to use in most bathrooms as they only need an electrical outlet. The irrigation tank gets filled with water and you refill it as needed.
• Battery-operated water flossers – These are great for traveling or for those with limited counter space. They’re slim and portable; however, they aren’t as powerful as the countertop variety.
• Shower flossers – These attach to your showerhead so you can floss in the shower! They’re a bit more difficult to maneuver, and you’ll need space in your shower to mount it, but they’re great for people who would rather keep all the “mess” in one place.
• Faucet flossers – These are similar to shower flossers but they use a cord that connects to the sink faucet instead of the shower head. They’re also a bit more cumbersome.

Most types of water flossers, no matter the design, have different modes that make them easy on sensitive gums and effective for people who want more pressure. They’re also easy to use for people with braces, bridges, and implants.

Water flossers are a more fool-proof way of getting all the bacteria and build-up from between teeth and underneath the gumlines. Even for those that floss the traditional way each day, most don’t do it properly. There’s less “technique” involved with water flossers, which means that you’re more likely to keep your gums healthy and happy. 

Oral irrigators are especially beneficial for people with the following issues:

• Bleeding gums – This is an early sign of gum disease that needs attention right away.
• Braces – Food and plaque often get stuck behind and between brackets.
• Dry mouth – Saliva is a natural mouth cleaner, so those with dry mouth usually have more buildup and are at higher risk for cavities.
• Crooked teeth – If your teeth aren’t perfectly straight, it’s more likely that food will get stuck in them. Plus, it’s harder to floss them well!

Oral irrigation devices should be combined with a regular flossing routine to ensure that your mouth remains as clean and healthy as possible. Especially if you already have signs of periodontal disease, such as bleeding gums, or if you have braces, dry mouth, or crooked teeth, then a water flosser is a smart addition to other elements of a dental hygiene routine.

Raise your hand if you’ve ever lied to your dentist when they ask you about your flossing habits. You’re not alone.

Your dentist will tell you that you should be flossing your teeth every single day. However, that’s not the case for most people. Most people probably don’t even brush their teeth correctly twice a day, and flossing is one more chore. However, most people have issues with cavities, plaque, and gingivitis that they tend to ignore.

Why is flossing so important? Well, even the best toothbrushes can only get so much out of your teeth. Food, bacteria, and plaque accumulate in the areas of your gums and the crevices between your teeth. (If your teeth aren’t perfectly straight, there’s even more likelihood that bad germs are hiding in between!)

Flossing is one of the most important things you can do for the health of your teeth and your gums. When bacteria and buildup get left behind, it creeps up into your gums and causes gingivitis, which is the fancy name for gum disease. Gum disease, when left untreated, isn’t just bad for your mouth. It travels into your bloodstream and can cause serious health issues, such as cardiovascular problems.

The CDC reports that over half of American adults over the age of 30 have some form of periodontal (gum) disease. This only gets worse as people age, so the sooner you improve your flossing habits, the better.

If taking care of your health isn’t motivation enough, flossing will help take care of your wallet, too! Cavities and gum disease caused by lack of flossing can mean expensive dental visits and procedures in later years. Even when people have quality dental insurance (and not everyone does), co-pays for those treatments add up fast.

Flossing your teeth doesn’t have to be difficult! Choose the type that fits your lifestyle best.

• Waxed or unwaxed original floss – save money and don’t accumulate a lot of plastic waste
• Superfloss – good for people with braces, bridges, or wide gaps in their teeth
• Water or air flossers – use air or water to get into the crevices of your teeth
• Single-use flossers –get deep into the back sections of your mouth without squeezing your fingers back there and wondering if you’re doing it right

If you haven’t flossed your teeth in a long time or you’re already dealing with early-stage gum disease, you might notice a little bit of pain or bleeding when you floss. This is normal, and it will go away as your gums begin to heal.

Floss before you brush your teeth at night to loosen up any particles that can then be removed more easily when you brush. Keep your preferred method of flosser on the counter next to your toothbrush—this will make it easier to remember to floss your teeth and soon, it’ll be part of your dental hygiene routine.

Next time you go to the dentist and you tell them about your good flossing habits, your teeth and your conscience will be clean!

Naturally, you want to have healthy-looking, clean teeth. You want your smile to be as white and charming as possible. Having stained teeth covered in plaque is not the look you want. Ensuring that you get your teeth professionally cleaned regularly is a huge help when you want to establish a healthy lifestyle. Of course, many people aren’t aware of just how often they should get their teeth cleaned.

Typically, a dental cleaning will be part of an annual checkup that you have with your dentist. However, having an annual cleaning is not enough for most people. Consider all of the various types of foods that you eat that could stain your teeth. Consider the way your teeth feel and the amount of plaque that starts to build up over time, even when you are taking good care of them.

Instead of annually, it’s recommended that you have a professional cleaning every six months. With some gum conditions, it can be as often as two to three months. This will help to ensure cleaner and healthier teeth and gums.  Your dentist can help you determine the proper interval for your situation.  Plus, if there are any issues with your dental health, your dentist will find them during these visits. This means you could catch problems earlier than if you only had one cleaning a year.

Why Do I Need Dental Cleanings?

Dental cleanings will help to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy and in good shape. They are a good part of oral hygiene. As mentioned, they allow the dentist to get a better look at what’s happening with your teeth. Any issues that you might have can be addressed early, so you can keep your mouth as healthy as possible.

If you do not keep your teeth clean and if you don’t visit the dentist regularly, there is a good chance that you will be dealing with oral health problems. Cavities, gingivitis, tooth loss and breakage, hardened plaque, tartar, and inflamed gums are just a couple of the potential problems that you will face. It’s best to find a good dentist that can take care of your cleanings a several times a year.

Taking Care of Your Teeth Between Dental Cleanings

However, this doesn’t mean that you aren’t still responsible for keeping your teeth clean the rest of the time. You need to make sure that you are providing yourself with good oral care in between those visits. This means that you need to brush your teeth at least twice a day for a minimum of two minutes each time. Ideally, you will brush after each meal and after any sugary snacks that you might have. This can help to keep your teeth in better shape.

When you are choosing a toothbrush, opting for a soft-bristled brush is a good idea. You will want to be sure that you are using high-quality fluoridated toothpaste, too. In addition to brushing, you should also floss your teeth to remove any particles that are in between your teeth and that could cause damage if they are left there. Flossing should be done at least once a day. Additionally, make sure that you have some good mouthwash that will help to keep the breath feeling and smelling fresh, and that will keep the bacteria away.

Get in Touch with a Great Dentist for Cleaning and Other Care

Your dental health is connected to your overall health. Take the time to find a good dentist that can help you with your teeth cleanings twice a year, and who can help you with other dental care that you might need. You can talk with your dentist about the best types of toothbrushes to use, as well as the best kinds of toothpaste to use, too. Take care of your teeth and they will take care of you. Dr. Foutz can help you keep your teeth and gum tissue in optimal health!

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

You want to keep your teeth and gums looking and feeling great and clean, so you brush several times a day using a good dentist-recommended toothpaste. You floss and use mouthwash, as well. However, if you aren’t changing your toothbrush regularly, you might not be getting your teeth as clean as you might believe. Of course, many people aren’t sure when they should change their toothbrushes or why it is so important to do it regularly. Let’s look at what the experts say.

When Should I Change My Toothbrush?

It’s recommended that you brush your teeth between meals and after sugary snacks to help keep your teeth in good shape. All of this brushing means that your toothbrush will start to wear down and will need to be replaced. The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control recommend that people change out their toothbrushes every three to four months. This is true for traditional toothbrushes, as well as electric toothbrush heads. Erring on the side of caution and opting for a replacement every three months tends to be a better idea. After all, you want to be sure that your teeth are getting as clean as possible.

Why Should You Change Your Toothbrush Regularly?

Of course, you don’t have to wait this long to change your toothbrush. If you notice that there is a lot of wear and tear, or if other people in the family have been sick, it’s a good idea to change the toothbrush. When they are in the bathroom, they could be coughing. Even though they might not be near the toothbrush, there is still the chance that it could cause you to get sick.

The bristles on your toothbrush start to wear down over time. When they are worn out, they will be more abrasive on your gums, which could lead to inflammation or even gum recession. Worn-out bristles tend not to be as effective, as well. If you want to keep your teeth clean and your gums healthy, get a new toothbrush sooner rather than later.

Also, bacteria and plaque can start to build up on the toothbrush. The longer you use the same toothbrush the more bacteria will start to take over your brush. It’s better to simply adhere to the three-month rule and change out the toothbrush. They are not overly expensive, and you can often find some good deals online.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Toothbrush Early

If you notice the bristles are becoming frayed and wild, you will want to replace your toothbrush. However, there are plenty of other signs that it might be time to replace your toothbrush. For example, if you drop the toothbrush, you may want to replace it. Cleaning it is often enough if you keep your bathroom spotless, but you don’t want to take the chance if you live with roommates.

Don’t make the mistake of trying to boil or microwave the toothbrush to remove germs and bacteria. While it might help with those problems, it will also warp the bristles. The toothbrush will not be as effective at keeping your teeth clean.

Find a Good Dentist

In addition to brushing your teeth at least twice a day and changing out your toothbrush every three months or so, you also want to have a great dentist. Find a dentist that can provide you with the cleanings and other services you need. They can also provide you with some insight into some of the best types of brushes to get that will do a good job cleaning your teeth.  Dr Foutz is happy to help his patients in all of the areas discussed in this article.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

You know how important it is to brush your teeth and to floss your teeth, but do you really need to have mouthwash, too? Many people forego using mouthwash because they feel that they are getting their teeth and gums clean enough without it. However, this could be a mistake. You will find that there are some nice benefits to using mouthwash. Let’s look at a couple of the biggest benefits to see why you should consider adding mouthwash to your oral care routine.

Helps to Provide a Full Cleaning

For starters, when you use mouthwash, it will provide you with a fuller, better clean for your mouth. Even though you are brushing your teeth and flossing, there are still areas that can’t be reached. All of those little crevices between the teeth that can’t be reached with your floss or the bristles of your brush are breeding grounds for bacteria. They can cause damage to your teeth. Using mouthwash can help to reach those areas and will improve your oral health.

Kills Germs that Cause Teeth to Decay and Provide Other Benefits

Using mouthwash, particularly mouthwash with fluoride can help to prevent cavities. It can also strengthen enamel and re-mineralize your teeth, which can stop the process of decay. Mouthwash can also help to stop plaque from building up on your teeth, which will reduce the number of bacteria on the teeth that release acids. There are also options for mouthwashes that can help with whitening your teeth. You can find different types of mouthwash that can help with different oral health needs.

Helps to Reduce Bad Breath

Of course, one of the other benefits of using mouthwash is that it can help to combat bad breath. Although it won’t kill bad breath permanently, it can help to reduce it at least temporarily. It will kill bacteria that cause odors that might still exist even after brushing and flossing. It can also be nice to have around for those times after lunch when you have an upcoming meeting that’s face to face and you don’t have time to brush. It will keep the scent of garlic out of the meeting room.

How and When to Use Mouthwash

Something that you need to remember is that using mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing and flossing. It’s an additional way to help your oral health. Typically, you will use the mouthwash twice a day when you brush and floss in the morning and evening. You could use it more often, but don’t overdo it and do not swallow it.

The alcohol and the fluoride that are in many of the mouthwashes should not be ingested in high amounts. This is especially true for children. The American Dental Association does not recommend that mouthwash is used for any children who are under six years old.

How to Choose Mouthwash

A look online or in the local grocery store or pharmacy will show you that there are many mouthwash options on the market today. What should you look for when choosing mouthwash? When you are choosing a mouthwash, one of the first things you should do is look for the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. Sometimes your dentist will recommend you use a prescription mouthwash for certain conditions.  Talk to them and see.

You will also want to look at the other added features and benefits the particular mouthwash can offer. For example, you will likely want to have mouthwash that includes fluoride, since it is good for your teeth. You might want to find an alcohol-free mouthwash, or maybe you are looking for something that includes hydrogen peroxide for whitening. Maybe you need an option for sensitive teeth. Determine what you need and then find a mouthwash that can meet those needs.

If you are uncertain about what you should choose, you can always talk with your dentist. They can provide information on mouthwash, toothbrushes, oral care, and more. Dr Foutz can give you specific recommendations for your situation.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

Over the years, the number of toothbrushes that are available for purchase has risen substantially. While it is nice to have a lot more choice, it is also more difficult to know which types of toothbrush you should get. By breaking things down, it will become easier to see why there are so many options and how you can figure out which one is right for you.

Why so Many Options?

Why are there so many different types of toothbrushes? There are several reasons for this. First, different people will have different needs and preferences when it comes to the type and size of handle to use or the type of bristles. Some might prefer electric toothbrushes, while others prefer manual ones. Everyone will have their preferences, so the manufacturers are making different styles and options to accommodate. Today, you can find high-end toothbrushes with replaceable heads, as well as the standard “run of the mill” toothbrushes that can do just as good of a job in many cases.

So, how do you determine which ones will be right for you? Follow the simple steps below, and it will be much easier.

Choosing a New Toothbrush

The first step in determining the best toothbrush for you is determining whether you want to have a manual brush or an electric brush. As long as you are using good fluoride toothpaste and you are brushing at least twice a day for a minimum of two minutes each time, either will do. Ultimately, this is up to your preference and your budget. Electric brushes do much of the detail work for you.  With a manual brush, you are responsible for the small micro movements that ensure successful brushing.

The next thing you want to do as you are sorting through your options is to look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This means that the brush is backed by the American Dental Association, so you can be sure that it is safe and effective.

Third, you will consider the bristles on the brush. Most dentists will agree that softer bristles are better. They will do a good job of cleaning your teeth and removing plaque and other debris. Generally, you will want to choose soft bristles unless your dentist tells you that medium or hard bristles will be better for your teeth.

Fourth, consider the size of the toothbrush head. When you choose smaller heads, it will often be easier to get to the back part of the mouth to reach those teeth. Smaller heads are better for kids, as well.

Fifth, consider the brush handle that you like the best. People will often have their own preferences when it comes to the handle. You might like a thicker handle, for example. You might need to use one that is angled or that has a non-slip grip. Maybe you need to have one that has a flexible neck handle. This tends to be a matter of need and preference.

Sixth is the color or branding. While these ultimately don’t really matter from the perspective of keeping your teeth clean, they can be important when it comes to your style and aesthetic, not to mention keeping the toothbrush separated from others.

Talk with a Dentist About Your Toothbrush

If you are still confused as to which type of toothbrush will be the best solution for you or your children, don’t worry. You can always talk with your dentist.  Dr Foutz provides this kind of advice all the time!  They know your mouth as well as you do, and they can provide you with suggestions as to the best type of brush to use. Of course, they can also provide you with cleanings and all of the other oral health care you need. Be sure to choose a great dentist in your area.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

If you have invested in a cosmetic dentistry treatment, you undoubtedly want those results to last as long as possible. To keep your smile looking bright and beautiful for years to come, here are some simple tips to help you extend the life of your cosmetic dentistry.

Don’t Forget To Brush And Floss 

Brushing your teeth is the most important thing you can do for your dental health, but also for any cosmetic treatments. Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day. Doing so will help you to avoid tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease, but it will also keep your cosmetic enhancements in good condition and looking beautiful.

Brush Again After Sugary Treats

If your sweet tooth tends to get the better of you, make sure that you brush your teeth after enjoying a sugary treat or drink. If not brushed away properly, sugar can have negative effects of the condition of both your teeth and cosmetic enhancements. It can cause a number of problems including cavities that will require you to visit the dentist more often. The best way to indulge your sweet tooth while taking care of your teeth is to take the extra time and brush your teeth thoroughly after any sugary food or drinks.

Avoid Sugary Acidic Drinks

Drinks that are high in sugar and/or acidity, such as fruit juices or sodas, can take a toll on your dental health and your cosmetic treatments. These drinks will weaken your teeth and cause premature wear on any cosmetic enhancements, making it worthwhile to avoid drinking them as much as possible.

Use A Straw

If you can’t resist the craving for a fountain soda or a cold glass of orange juice, make sure that you use a straw. Using a straw can help to reduce your teeth’s exposure to the harmful effects of sugar and acidity. Using a straw for darker beverages such as tea, dark sodas, or coffee can also help you to avoid staining.

Avoid Hard Or Sticky Foods

Other important things to mindful of in your diet to protect the condition of your cosmetic dental enhancements is the amount of hard or sticky foods you eat. Any type of food that will stick to your teeth or require you to bite hard into it can affect the condition and appearance of your teeth. Avoiding these foods provides you a better opportunity of maintaining the beautiful smile you have invested time and money into.

Use A Mouth Guard If You Grind Your Teeth

If you tend to grind your teeth while you are sleeping, or if you suspect that you do, do not hesitate to use a mouth guard. A mouth guard can save the life of your cosmetic dentistry and protect the condition of your teeth. Wearing a mouth guard can also help you to avoid the jaw pain, headaches, and tooth sensitivity that can result from grinding your teeth.

Make Sure To Visit The Dentist Regularly

Just as important as brushing is on a daily basis is visiting your cosmetic dentist in Henderson, Nevada at least twice a year. During a dental checkup and cleaning, your dentist will check to make sure that your cosmetic treatments are prepared to last as long as possible.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

Gum disease is a serious oral health condition that should be treated as quickly as possible. What begins with puffy or bleeding gums can quickly become a much more serious issue that can even affect your overall health.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that is typically caused by a build up of bacteria, plaque and tartar. Plaque, the bacteria that develop on teeth and causes cavities, can also accumulate on a person’s gums and is the main cause for the beginning stages of gum disease. Gum disease can also be caused from other factors including:

• Family history
• Poor oral hygiene habits
• Smoking
• Hormonal changes
• Pregnancy
• Illnesses such as cancer, HIV, and diabetes
• Certain medications

Gum disease typically progresses subtlety and does not always produce obvious symptoms. Common signs of gum disease include:

• Bad breath
• Gums that are red, swollen, or tender
• Gums that bleed easily or bleed from tooth brushing
• Pain while chewing
• Receding gums
• Sensitive teeth
• Loose teeth
• Deep pockets between teeth and gums

Stages Of Gum Disease

The mildest stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis and is typically identified from swollen or bleeding gums and bad breath. Gingivitis is the easiest stage to treat and correct, which is why dentists recommend regular cleanings and exams every six months. If it is caught early enough, gingivitis is reversible and can even be corrected at home.

If left untreated or ignored, gingivitis will advance to slight or moderate periodontal disease. When the infection progresses, it will penetrates deep into the gums causing them to pull away from the teeth as bacteria begins to damage or even destroy tissue and bone.  The deeper the infection spreads, the more damage there is to gums, the greater risk there is of bacteria entering the blood stream, and there is often 20-50% bone loss. The slight and moderate stages of gum disease cannot be treated at home and will require treatment from a dentist.

The worst stage of gum disease is known as advanced periodontal disease. At this stage, bacteria becomes virulent leading to deep pocket depths between teeth and gums, root exposure, 50-90% bone loss, loose or shifted teeth, increased risk of tooth loss, abscesses in the gums, and infection throughout the immune system. At this stage, the disease can only be treated to make it manageable.

Preventing Gum Disease

The most effective way to prevent gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene habits. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and remaining consistent with dental cleanings and exams can go a long way in preventing any oral problem. Incorporating antibacterial mouthwashes can also help to reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth and consequently reduce the risk of plaque build-up. Other was to help reduce the risk of gum disease include quitting smoking or tobacco, reducing stress, maintaining a healthy diet, and avoiding clenching or grinding of the teeth.

Treating Gum Disease

Although gum disease cannot be treated with good oral hygiene habits alone, it is still extremely important to maintain those habits. The first step in treating gum disease comes from getting a professional dental cleaning every 4-6 months during which plaque and tartar are thoroughly removed. If your dentist notices signs of gum disease during an exam, they will be able to recommend specific habits that will help you prevent the disease from progressing.

If gingivitis is identified, you will receive a thorough cleaning both above and below the gum line to remove as much plaque and tartar as possible. You will need to be even more consistent with brushing and flossing to help stop gingivitis before it can advance.

Slight or moderate periodontal disease may require scaling during which the dentist will cleans out the periodontal pockets or root planning during with the surface of the roots is smoothed out to help gums reattach. Consistent oral hygiene after these treatments will help to stop the disease before it becomes worse.

In order to treat advanced periodontal disease, a procedure known as flap surgery may be necessary. During this procedure, an incision is made in the gums resembling a flap and the gums are then lifted back in order to clean the diseased and affected tissues. The flap is then sealed to help the gums fit better around the teeth. If the patient has lost teeth to the disease, the dentist may recommend a bone graft to help regenerate bone.

The exact treatment used will depend on the patient, their medical history, and the condition of their gums and teeth.

If you suspect gum disease, schedule an appointment at Foutz Family Dentistry in Henderson, Nevada as soon as possible to help get you on the path to healthy gums.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929