Having your teeth cleaned keeps your smile looking good but there is so much more to it than that! Being seen for regular dental cleanings maintains the health of your teeth as well as the gums and bone that support your teeth. It is critically important to keep the health of these structures for a lifetime!

If you've noticed that your gums look red and puffy in the mirror it is important to be seen by your dentist. Gingivitis (irritation, redness, and swelling of your gums) is the first visible sign of disease. In addition to the appearance of your gums, if they are bleeding when brushing and/or flossing you need to be seen for an evaluation and cleaning. The presence of bleeding gums is a manifestation of active disease of your gums. It is very important to see the dentist at this stage because the disease process can be eliminated and health can be restored.

The longer gingivitis stays around the more inflammation persists and more destruction happens to your supporting tissues, the gums and bone. In this stage, the gums start to pull away from the teeth and you develop recession. Recession is when the root of the tooth is no longer covered by gum tissue and is exposed. Furthermore, the inflammation in the gums then starts to spread to the underlying bone resulting in periodontitis.

Periodontitis develops when the supporting bone around the teeth gets destroyed. This destruction of bone can lead to mobility of teeth and tooth loss. When teeth start to get lost it directly affects your speech and ability to chew.

Gingivitis and periodontitis can develop and progress without any pain. Due to this disease being present without pain or discomfort people may believe that everything in their mouth is healthy and fine even when it is not. Getting in to see your dentist soon for treatment is one of the most important factors when it comes to the health of your teeth and gums as delaying treatment can have significant consequences. At Reed Dental Center, we have spots available to see you whether it's time for your six month checkup and cleaning or it's been years.

Don't procrastinate any longer and let the health of your teeth slip away. We're here to help! We are not here to pass judgment or make anyone feel embarrassed about their teeth. We want to help you achieve the healthy teeth you want and give you the confidence you want with your smile! Call us to let us help you on your journey! Our number is 785-274-9917. We look forward to seeing you!