Your guide to protecting your smile from gum disease
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Are you ready to take control of your smile’s health and wellness? Are you interested in keeping serious problems like gum disease from impacting you? If you live in the San Francisco, California, area and are looking for a dental team that can help, call the office of Dr. Leo Arellano. Below, we have compiled a list of common questions about protecting the smile from gum disease to educate you further on the steps you can take towards a forever smile!
What is gum disease, and why should I care about it?
Gum disease, also referred to by professionals as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in their proper place. If left untreated, it often leads to loose teeth, bad breath, and even tooth loss! Taking a few simple steps can keep it at bay and your smile shining bright.
How can I tell if I have gum disease?
Look out for red, swollen, or bleeding gums, especially after brushing or flossing. Persistent bad breath or a receding gumline can also be signs. If you are unsure, Dr. Leo Arellano is your best ally for diagnosing and treating gum issues early on, determining the cause of bleeding gums and other notable changes in the smile.
What’s the best way to prevent gum disease?
Good oral hygiene is critical to protecting your smile. Brush your teeth twice each day, floss each day, and do not forget to visit your dentist regularly. A balanced diet and drinking plenty of water also help keep your gums healthy and happy. Dr. Leo Arellano might recommend regular dental cleanings, as these treatments can help control plaque and tartar.
Does flossing really make a difference?
Absolutely! Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth and below the gumline, often areas your toothbrush can’t reach.
Is gum disease contagious?
While you can’t catch gum disease like you can catch a cold, sharing utensils or kissing someone with active gum issues can transmit the harmful bacteria that cause it. Just one more reason to care for your smile, and encourage others to do the same!
Can stress really impact my gum health?
Yes! Stress essentially weakens your immune system, making it much harder for your body to fight off infections, including gum disease. Managing stress with exercise, relaxation techniques, or a few good laughs can do wonders for your overall health, gums included.
Can kids get gum disease, too?
Actually, they can! While it is considered more common in adults, children and teens can develop gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, if they do not practice good oral hygiene. Teaching kids to brush, floss, and visit their dentist sets them up for healthy smiles for life.
Do I really need to see the dentist twice a year?
Yes! Regular dental checkups are like preventative maintenance for your mouth. Our dental team catches early signs of gum disease and helps you tackle them before they become big problems. Plus, who doesn’t love that fresh-from-the-dentist clean feeling?
Who can I contact to learn more about protecting the smile from gum disease?
Call Dr. Leo Arellano and his team in San Francisco, California, to discuss your unique needs with our team at 3030 Geary Boulevard. The office can be reached by dialing 415-881-4343.
