Preventing Gum Disease

If you knew something could harm your health, would you try to prevent it? Of course, you would, and your dentists at Kemlage Family Dentistry can help. At our Fenton, MO, practice, Dr. Thomas Kemlage and Dr. Andrew Kemlage inform their patients on the dangers of gum disease and show them simple ways to lower their risk for this difficult oral health problem.

It's also called periodontal disease

And, it is the leading reason why people lose their teeth in the United States. Caused by Strep bacteria in the mouth, gum disease often starts with few to no symptoms, but as it progresses, the problem becomes more obvious, with symptoms and inflammation which spread beyond the mouth.

Yes, periodontitis is linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and dementia. In fact, the American Heart Association reports that people who do not brush their teeth, floss frequently, or visit their dentist triple their chances of heart failure, stroke, and MI (heart attack).

Preventing gum disease

It starts at home. A healthy diet high in fiber and low in processed sugars encourages a low-risk oral environment. Brushing twice a day and flossing once daily reduces the build-up of toxic plaque and tartar, the yellow, rough biofilms which oral bacteria absolutely love.

Additionally, your gums remain vibrant with sufficient hydration (keep drinking water throughout the day) and no smoking. Tobacco encourages plaque build-up, and also, the heat from cigarette smoke actually burns soft tissue. This keratosis leads to gum disease and both pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions, says the American Academy of Oral Medicine.

Take care of your total smile by visiting our Fenton office

Oral hygiene at home and preventive dentistry services do more than just take care of your teeth—they service your gums, bone structure, dental alignment, and personal appearance, too. For more tips and techniques on preventing gum disease, please contact Dr. Thomas Kemlage or Dr. Andrew Kemlage at Kemlage Family Dentistry in Fenton, MO. These dentists, along with their friendly team, really want their patients to have wonderful smiles for life. Call us at (636) 225-1777.

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Our Regular Schedule

Hours of Operation

Monday:

8:30 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:30 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

8:30 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

8:30 am-3:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed