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Chances are, you’ve heard of gum disease and seen numerous commercials about mouthwashes and toothpastes that fight it. But what you may not know is that gum disease affects an estimated 80 percent of the population. It is the leading cause of bad breath and causes more people to lose their teeth than cavities!

• Bleeding gums have been linked to heart disease, problems with fetal development, and numerous other health conditions. The good news is that it is entirely preventable. If you already suffer from gum problems, there are numerous ways to treat it that dentists never had before.
• Bad Fillings: Often, a defective, irregular filling, a cavity or a leaking crown is the cause of shredding, breaking floss, and bleeding gums. If you suffer from anything like this, please consider getting it professionally evaluated as soon as possible.
• Best Toothbrush: Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss? Bleeding or tender gums are one of primary symptoms of gum disease. Unfortunately, many people stop brushing or flossing when gums bleed   fearing that brushing too hard or flossing may worsen the problem. Actually the wrong toothbrush or floss can aggravate the problem. Dr. Curtis recommends you throw-out your hard, medium or soft toothbrush and switch to an ultra-soft. (We’ll give you one at your cleaning appointment.)
• Best Floss: As for floss, try Gilde’s waxed floss. It is the least likely to shred or break; and slides in more easily than other brands. Other floss-applicators can also make traditional flossing a hassle.
• Water-Flossers  & Rinses: If you have trouble flossing, Dr Curtis recommends the Hydrofloss “water-flosser.” This unit blasts out food debris and bacteria with a jet of ionized water. Simply shoot the little water gun between your teeth and under your gums. You will be amazed at the squeaky clean feeling your teeth will get.
• Dental Rinses: Dr Curtis may also recommend highly effective rinses – some require a prescription and others you may find in your typical pharmacy or supermarket.
• Bacterial plaque: The truth is, if your gums bleed when you floss, it’s most likely because bacterial plaque has begun to irritate your gums. Oftentimes, a professional cleaning will stop the damage and get you on the road to healthy teeth, fresh breath, and uninfected gums for a lifetime.

To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office today at 203-372-4296. We’re located two blocks from the Trumbull Mall in Commerce Park. You will love Dr Curtis and his staff!