Do you floss about as often as you flip your mattress? Do you spend more time putting toothpaste on your brush then you take the time to brush? Dentists and Hygienists notice these things. And that's not all.
If your hands bled every time you washed them would you see your Doctor? Probably. But if your gums bled every time you brush would you call your Dentist? Probably not. Most of the population thinks bleeding gums are normal. Unless you are an over zealous brusher, bleeding gums are not normal, even small amounts of bleeding can indicate an level of periodontal disease.
What is periodontal disease? You probably heard the term and blocked it quickly out of you mind, because you couldn't possibly have a disease! Perio means" around" and "dont" is tooth. So the tissue that surrounds the tooth is unhealthy. Gum tissue should be tight against the tooth like a turtleneck sweater!
When dentists or hygienists look at gum tissue,we look for bleeding and inflammation first. Then note if the tissue is glossy or stippled. Stippled is like the skin of an orange. Your tissue should have texture not be shiny and smooth. To determine the disease level an instrument called a probe is used. Think of it as a little ruler. One to three millimeters is healthy tissue. Four without bleeding is healthy while a four with bleeding is unhealthy. Any number higher number puts you in an advanced gum disease and at a risk of losing your teeth.
Dentists and hygienists love patients who are interested in their oral health. So ask questions? Ask what your probe readings are. Brush, floss and use a antimicrobial mouthwash daily.
Just a note if your pockets are five millimeters and above flossing will not help. Just think you don't have to floss. Did you ever try to clean out a bottom of your shirt pocket? What you should do is invest in a water irrigator to flush out the disease causing bacteria. Start on the low setting and move your way up in force. You will be amazed at what comes out! Just think of what can be found in the bottom of that shirt pocket!!
