October is National Dental Hygiene Month, a time for all consumers to reconsider their oral health habits, and to consider enhancing their smiles.
Today's dental hygienists no longer solely clean patients' teeth. A hygienist is responsible for detecting oral cancer, examining cracked crowns, and promoting the benefits of dentistry to the patient before the dentist ever looks in the mouth. Regular professional visits are important because gingivitis, the early stage of periodontal disease, is usually painless and patients may not be able to detect it on their own. Don't ignore the warning signs of gum disease, red, swollen or tender gums; Gums that bleed with brushing; and recurring bad breath are all key signs of gum disease.
The doctor's at Family Dentistree perform a 4-step gum evaluation on each and every patient in their practice. Step 1, a thorough evaluation of each tooth checking for cavities, defective fillings, and tooth mobility. Step 2, they check the gum tissues for redness, swelling, abscesses, as well as for oral cancer lesions. Step 3, x-rays are taken to detect hidden tartar and bone loss due to gum disease. Step 4, measurements are taken in the spaces between your teeth and gums (these are called "pockets") to see if the pockets are shallow, cleansable, and do not bleed upon touch (healthy) or if the pockets are deep, traps food/bacteria, and bleed upon touch (unhealthy). Based on the results of their examination, the doctor's are then able to make an accurate diagnosis of their patients' gums and customize a professional gum therapy plan for that individual patient.
Fortunately, early gum disease such as gingivitis is completely reversible with professional treatment and oral home care. Brushing frequently and most importantly flossing are the habits that we teach our patients to do at home between visits. Once the patients are educated on the importance of keeping their pockets clean by flossing at home, we usually see improvements when they return for check up visits. Visiting a dental hygienist and dentist, every six months or as scheduled, is vital in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. If left untreated, early gum disease can lead to a more serious form of gum disease (periodontitis), which can result in tooth loss and/or other life threatening health problems.
If you've been guilty of putting off your dental exam and professional cleaning, consider visiting your hygienist during this National Dental Hygiene Month for a beautiful fall smile! Visit our website at www.familydentistree.com or call us today at 941-952-1790.