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Nice smile:the 5 things to do at the dentist #5

I want to clean up my gums

The effect of time. If they are not necessarily visible when you smile, the gums play their role:neglected, they can bleed and take on a blood-red color or, on the contrary, be rather transparent. Inflammation of the gums, called gingivitis, affects a large part of the population (frequently or exceptionally). It is linked to the accumulation of dental plaque at the junction between the gum and the teeth, which eventually turns into a solid deposit, tartar. It can spread to the ligaments and the alveolar bone (this is called periodontitis) and go so far as to cause the loosening of the teeth.

The technique that works. Impeccable dental hygiene is imperative:brushing the teeth (more effective with an electric toothbrush) and cleaning the interdental space with a wire. Once or twice a year, we leave it to the pro with an in-office descaling.

Dress and price. The effects of descaling last a maximum of one year. The act costs around €30, partly covered by Social Security, to be added to the price of the consultation.

Thanks to Dr Jean-Marc Bittoun, dental surgeon, and Julien Carré, aesthetic doctor (ML Esthetics).