What should you know about gum disease? For starters, it's not always easy to tell if you have it, and a lot of people have it and don't know it. Arthur W. Weiss is a Toluca Lake Dentist. He is a general, cosmetic, and implants dentist and fellow and diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He is a published author and expert in prosthodontics. A dentist Valley Village trusts with all their needs, Dr. Weiss has been the implants dentist North Hollywood and Studio City have come to rely upon.

1. Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)
Gum disease may not initially be apparent, as there are not always
symptoms which indicate you have a problem. That’s why it’s important you
have regular check-ups with your dentist who’ll be able to see the early signs
of periodontal disease and treat it before it takes hold.
Periodontal disease is quite common, and can be in the form of an
inflammation of the gums, to a more serious disease that will eventually
result in the damage of soft tissue and bone that supports the teeth.
During the day food particles and mucus form a layer of plaque on our teeth,
and this in conjunction with the bacteria in our mouths can cause gum
disease. That’s why it’s essential to brush our teeth twice a day and floss at
least once a day. If we’re negligent in this respect, we get a buildup of tartar
which can only be removed by a dentist.
Tartar that’s not cleaned away will eventually cause an inflammation of the
gums known as gingivitis. The gums become red, swollen and start to bleed
and if left untreated can lead to more serious illnesses.
Gum disease can be triggered by smoking, hormonal changes, diabetes and
certain medications. It can also be brought on by serious illness, but
whatever the cause the problem can be lessened by good oral hygiene.
Treating gum disease will depend entirely upon the severity of the condition.
A dentist will carry out scaling of the teeth using gritty toothpaste and an
electric toothbrush which will thoroughly clean the teeth and get rid of
unwanted debris. On the other hand more serious conditions may warrant
surgery.
The best way to prevent gum disease is to maintain good oral hygiene and
to consult a dentist at least twice a year in order to ensure your teeth and
gums are in good condition.
Using the best toothpaste for your needs is mostly down to personal choice.
However, if you suffer with sensitive teeth and gums the best toothpaste
would be one for sensitive teeth. These toothpastes help to stop your teeth
and gums from feeling pain during changes in temperature, and ease the
discomfort of receding gums.
It’s important to realize that your overall health can be affected by the
condition of your teeth and gums. A healthy diet of fresh fruit, vegetables
and whole foods all of which should contain essential vitamins and minerals,

2. will certainly help to prevent gum disease.
Arthur Weiss is a Toluca Lake Dentist serving the San Fernando Valley
region.
Dr. Arthur W. Weiss
10553 Riverside Drive
Toluca Lake, CA 91602-2440
(818) 762-0694
www.arthurweissdds.com