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This Is Why We Need to Floss | Kenilworth Dentist

It is important to always do our best to keep good dental hygiene practices. Each day, twice a day for at least two minutes, we use our toothbrush to scrub our mouths of random debris. And we all know that flossing is also a part of this routine, but most of us are less apt to keeping up with this step. But is it necessary to floss each time we brush? The answer is yes. Not only because our dentist can tell but taking care of our teeth is important if we want to keep them for as long as we possibly can. Still not convinced to floss? Here are the main reasons flossing should be implemented into your dental hygiene process.

Better than brushing alone. A toothbrush works to removing plaque with its bristles. Brushing alone has one big drawback: A toothbrush’s bristles can’t adequately clean between the teeth or under the gums. That’s where floss comes in, to get in those tiny spaces between your teeth to get the grime out your toothbrush can’t reach.

Protects your gums. Where the gums and teeth meet are where flossing plays its major role. Particles of food can get lodged here, and plaque in this area will harden over time to form tartar, that your dentist will remove with a scraper. Tartar buildup can lead to gingivitis.

Helps prevent other diseases. Gum disease can have effects that go beyond discolored teeth, discomfort and bad breath. Research has shown that the bacteria in an unhealthy mouth can harm the rest of the body, leading to heart disease, diabetes and respiratory illness.

For more information regarding flossing, contact Drs. Freund and Waterloo today at 847-251-8990 or visit www.villagedentalpc.com.

Drs. Chad Freund and Cathy Waterloo proudly serves Kenilworth and all surrounding areas.

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The Three Stages of Gum Disease | Kenilworth Dentist

We all want a bright and shiny smile, but we rarely think about a healthy one. Nearly 75% of Americans suffer from some form of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. When you aren’t practicing proper oral hygiene, you’re allowing the bacteria in plaque to remain on your teeth, which will eventually infect your gums. Let’s break it down:

Gingivitis. Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease, and can be noticed by inflamed gums, red or swollen gums, which is mainly caused by plaque buildup due to poor dental hygiene. This stage of the disease can also cause your gums to bleed, which you may notice when brushing or flossing your teeth. While no gum disease is good, this is the only stage of periodontal that is reversible with periodontal treatment.

Periodontitis. At this particular stage, the supporting bone and tissues will be irreversibly damaged. Your gums will also start to separate from your teeth, forming pockets below the gum line that will eventually become infected. Thankfully, with periodontal treatment and improved oral hygiene, you and your dentist can usually prevent any further damage.

Advanced periodontitis. This is the final stage of periodontal disease – not only has the infection affected your teeth, but it has also destroyed the fibers and bones that support your teeth. This can affect your bite and cause your teeth to shift, loosen and/or even fall out. Unfortunately, if periodontal treatment can’t save your teeth, your dentist may have to remove them, which means more time in the dental chair.

Gum disease is nothing to laugh at but can be easily prevented with a little daily dental TLC.

For more information regarding gum disease, contact Drs. Freund and Waterloo today at 847-251-8990 or visit www.villagedentalpc.com.

Drs. Chad Freund and Cathy Waterloo proudly serves Kenilworth and all surrounding areas.