Has it been a few months, or perhaps even a year or two, since you last visited your dentist? Maybe you’ve been putting off your next dental checkup because of finances, time constraints, dental anxiety, or the COVID-19 pandemic. Whatever the reason, it’s time to get your oral health back on track and schedule your next appointment! Your dentist won’t be interested in judging you or making you feel guilty. They just want to help you achieve the happy, healthy smile you deserve! If it’s been a while since your last dental checkup, read on to discover what you can expect.

Gum disease is a bacterial infection in the gums, and it’s an incredibly common problem. In fact, recent studies suggest that well over half of the US population has some form of gum disease, whether that be the earliest phases (gingivitis) or the more advanced stages (periodontitis). Not only does this common oral health condition cause swollen gums, bad breath, and an unhealthy mouth, but it’s the leading cause of tooth loss in the US! One of the first signs of gum disease is gum recession, where the gums pull away from the teeth. Read on to learn more about spotting gum recession and whether your gums can grow back after it has occurred.