Category: Gum Health

Many patients have asked our administrative staff, “why do I need to update my health history form? Nothing has changed.”  So, we asked one of our hygienists, Christina, to help us understand what your health history has to do with your dental visits. “I’m here to tell you that the information you provide us with on these forms can tell us a lot about your oral health. Your overall health can affect your oral health in many ways, a few of which I will discuss below. A possible link between periodontal (gum) disease and the risk of heart disease has been studied for Read More →

We asked our hygienists here at Family Dentist Tree how your pregnancy can affect your oral health; here is what they said: “You may experience some changes in your oral health during pregnancy. The primary changes are due to a surge in hormones that can cause your gums to exaggerate a normal reaction to plaque. Changes in your hormone levels can cause swollen gums that bleed during brushing and flossing (pregnancy gingivitis). If plaque isn’t removed daily, it can eventually harden into tarter and may increase your risk of gingivitis. If your gingivitis was diagnosed prior to your pregnancy, the Read More →

With so many types of toothpaste out there such as tartar control, whitening, sensitivity, cavity prevention, and many more, it can be difficult to know what’s right for you! We are often asked by our patients what types we suggest they use. Here are some basic recommendations, but it is always a good idea to consult your dentist or hygienist about what may be best for you. It can be difficult to know what type of toothpaste is right for your child. Children who are unable to spit toothpaste out after brushing (ages 0-3) require a rice sized amount of Read More →

  Most commonly, gum tissue bleeds because it is inflamed. Inflamed gum tissue (a.k.a. gingivitis) occurs when the bacteria in plaque and tartar cause the gum tissue to become swollen and reddish. Inflamed gum tissue also bleeds when touched with floss or a tooth brush. So what can you do? Start by cleaning your teeth as thoroughly as you can with brushing and daily flossing. Good oral hygiene should improve the situation in a few days; however, a visit with your dentist is required to rule out periodontal disease or systemic medical problems contributing to your bleeding gums. Although good brushing Read More →