February has been designated Gum Disease Awareness Month! Initially launched by the Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry, its purpose is to raise awareness about gum disease and encourage healthy dental habits to prevent it.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), gum disease, also referred to as periodontitis, is the result of infections and inflammation of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth. In the early stages, the gums can become swollen and red, and they may bleed. As it progresses, the gums can pull away from the tooth, which can eventually result in bone and tooth loss. Not only does gum disease affect your mouth, it can affect your body as well. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene are important to ensure everything is healthy.
Periodontal disease is mostly seen in adults, with 47.2% of those aged 30 years and older having some form of it. This risk only increases with age. On top of age, there are many other risk factors that can increase your chance of developing gum disease. One of the primary risk factors is smoking, followed by poor oral hygiene, diabetes, stress, hormonal changes and medications that cause dry mouth.
While gum disease starts in the mouth, when left untreated, it can start affecting many other parts of the body as well. This includes respiratory disease, rheumatoid arthritis, coronary artery disease and diabetes.
Reviews
Rating 4.8 out of 5 based on 198 reviews
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a year ago
Great experience. I like the new dentist, my care was comprehensive and timely. Dr. Harp is a ray of sunshine with big gentle hands
Stephanie Thomas
a year ago
Great service but not very understanding of not being able to pay 5k up front for crowns. They don't offer any payment plans except for care credit which you have to have astronomical credit that not everyone qualifies for.
Joy Gerdom
a year ago
This was the best experience I've had at this office. I felt like I was treated as a special guest rather than a patient. Julia and the hygienist took great care with me. I highly recommend this office.
Emily Kubiszewski
2 years ago
I like the dentist/hygienists but if you are a busy person, this is not the place to go. My 6 month appointment that had been scheduled for 6 months was canceled by them and they couldn't get me in for another month. They explained they were short staffed, which I understood so I rolled with it. The rescheduled appointment was for today. Planning around it, I took the afternoon off, scheduled a few other things for later in the afternoon and chose to work from home (solely because of this appt.). Realizing I hadn't received a reminder, I called to confirm. The response was, "yes we had you down for 1:00 today but we need to reschedule because that's our lunch time and no one will be here." Then why was my appointment scheduled for this time. Once, I understood. A second, with no notice or advance phone call was too much. Needless to say, I am looking for a reliable place to go. I am now over a month overdue because of this...
Amber VC
2 years ago
Always kind and considerate! Their team are absolutely amazing!
oksharkcar
2 years ago
The receptionist is hilarious, and Dr. Harris and the hygienist Sarah are both professional and kind. My check-up was quick and comprehensive. However, my partner had a check-up at the same time as mine, but spent twice as much time waiting for staff as I did, and as a result didn't get a dental cleaning in his appointment even though he paid the same amount in the end. Isn't that what the annual appointment is for? No two patients will get the same level of care here. Also, the tech seems very inexperienced; she couldn't clarify the questions she was asking me as if she didn't know what they meant, and she caused my gums to bleed several times trying to take X-rays. They canceled my appointment for a procedure without ever calling me to notify me or reschedule. I showed up and waited in the waiting room for more than 15 minutes before I realized there wasn't anyone inside, even though the door was unlocked. I had to call the corporate office to ask what happened and reschedule. I also think it's suspicious that they recommend exactly the amount of dental care that will max out your dental coverage, for both me and my partner. I'm not sure I will go back here even though the care was nice at the time, because they come off as untrustworthy. You may get a great experience or you may not.
Dawn Galbreath
2 years ago
Always very happy with the service at staff at this practice! They get me in right away when there is an issue, are always very polite and respectful of my time. Highly recommend!
Anthony Reese
2 years ago
Friendly people, gave me a great rundown of everything
Emily Rose
2 years ago
They were very gentle and explained everything she was doing.
Amy Jones
2 years ago
Fast, friendly and competent
Lcd D
2 years ago
This place is truly amazing!
Skye Rosebrock
2 years ago
Everyone is so friendly and helpful
Eric Levin
2 years ago
Great location. Dr. Amanda Harris has a great team. Been going here for 2 years now. Sarah the hygenist always does a great job, and Kat her new assistant did a fantastic job as well. Very knowledgeable staff at this location.
barry inskeep
2 years ago
Everyone was just so nice and there was no pain involved at all .
Kayla Hayes
2 years ago
The kindness and how gentle they are is amazing. I highly recommend this dentist for anyone. I drive two hours just to come to Gentle Dentist because they are great!
KATHY Arsenault
2 years ago
Love this dentist's office is great for any people who have fears of dentist. I sent my grandson recently he was so afraid but he loves it there. Try them out I know you will be happy.
Jesica Murnan-council
2 years ago
Professional, personable, empathetic, and very kind from reception on. Always A Pleasant experience. Except when it's not lol It is the dentist.
L. Best
2 years ago
Dr. Harris does such an amazing job and has serviced all of my dental needs with care and empathy. She is placing my dental implant next month and I couldn't be happier with the service and professionalism that I've received from not only Dr. Harris but her whole team! 10/10 I definitely recommend!!!
Dez Harris
2 years ago
Excellent service, very professional, friendly staff....I will be back
Kristian Walker
2 years ago
The staff is absolutely amazing and were so gentle and loving with my grandkids.. thanks for what you do
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