Prevention is better than good dental insurance
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For years dentists have stressed that proper brushing and flossing of teeth
helps prevent gum disease. Recent studies have show that gum disease is
caused by bacteria. Not poor brushing or flossing habits.
The treatment of gum disease may include better dental hygiene, that means brushing and flossing, but treatment needs to include removing the harmful bacteria. Ridding the mouth of bacteria that causes gingivitis may include daily submicrobial doses of doxycycline, a form of tetracycline. Doxycycline has few serious side effects or complications. In addition, the dentist may place tetracycline in time-release packets under the gum of seriously effected teeth. Rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash also kills bacteria. A routine of brushing, rinsing with Listerine, and flossing after each mail helps reduce bacteria in the mouth. More effective than Listerine is the antiseptic chlorexidine gluconate (Peridex). Used as a mouth rinse twice a day, chlorhexidine gluconate kills more bacteria than Listerine. The side effects include possible light staining of the teeth. The warning of increased tartar formation is more likely the result of the tartar being more easily seen. When you do see a dentist, make sure you aren't paying list price. Sign up with our dental plan and get reduced fees rather than pay “sticker price“ for everything. |
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