Did you know that February is National Gum Disease Awareness Month? As dentists, we take this opportunity to educate our patients on the importance of paying attention to bleeding gums. Neglecting bleeding gums can lead to gum disease, which can eventually result in tooth loss and a host of other problems, including: • Painful, bleeding gums • Receding gums • Tooth loss • Bad breath • Loose teeth • Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite • Changes in the fit of partial dentures • Formation of pockets between the teeth and gums • Abscesses (swelling of gum tissue caused by a bacterial infection) If you notice that your gums bleed when you brush or floss, don’t ignore it! Schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible so we can assess the situation and recommend the appropriate treatment. In the meantime, make sure to brush and floss regularly, and avoid smoking or using tobacco products. Prevention is key when it comes to maintaining healthy gums. Make sure to visi...