Gum Disease Awareness Month: What Melbourne, FL Families Should Know About Prevention

Quick answers about gum disease prevention

• Gum disease can affect people with good oral hygiene. Genetics, medications and lifestyle factors all play a role

• Regular dental visits help identify early changes in the gums, when care is often easier to manage

• Understanding how gum disease develops supports better daily habits at home

• Dr. Jean Marius and the care team at Aspen Dental in Melbourne, FL provide comprehensive gum health evaluations and personalized prevention plans

What Melbourne, FL residents need to know about gum disease

February is National Gum Disease Awareness Month, and Dr. Jean Marius wants Space Coast residents to understand an important point: gum disease does not affect only one type of patient. Whether you are enjoying Melbourne Beach sunsets or commuting near Eau Gallie, gum health requires attention beyond brushing alone. Some patients develop gum disease even with consistent home care.

“Many patients believe that only people with poor dental hygiene can get gum disease,” says Dr. Jean Marius. “However, people with habits such as smoking or vaping, genetic risk factors, diabetes, or dry mouth caused by certain medications can also develop gum disease.” Gum disease often begins quietly. Early care and consistent prevention can make a meaningful difference.

Is bleeding when you brush normal?

Bleeding during brushing or flossing is often overlooked, but it can be an early sign that the gums need attention. Inflammation caused by plaque buildup along the gumline may lead to redness, swelling or bleeding. Other early signs may include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen

• Persistent bad breath

• Gums that seem to be pulling away from the teeth

Melbourne’s warm climate can also influence gum health. Spending time outdoors may contribute to dry mouth, which reduces saliva’s natural protective role. Certain medications, including some blood pressure or allergy medications, may also increase the likelihood of dry mouth. Scheduling an evaluation allows your care team to assess these factors early and recommend supportive care.

How does gum disease develop?

Gum disease begins with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth each day. When plaque is not removed through brushing and cleaning between teeth, it can harden into tartar along and below the gumline.

In the earliest stage, called gingivitis, gums may look red or swollen and may bleed during brushing or flossing. With professional cleaning and consistent home care, this stage can often be managed effectively.

If gingivitis progresses, it may develop into periodontitis, where infection affects the tissues and bone that support the teeth. Over time, this can affect tooth stability if left untreated.

“Although gum disease can be caused by multiple factors such as smoking, vaping, an unhealthy diet and poor oral hygiene, regular checkups with your local dentist can help detect early stages and treat them right away,” Dr. Marius explains. “Like with any infection, early detection is key to successfully managing the disease.”

Research has found associations between gum disease and overall health concerns, including diabetes-related complications, cardiovascular conditions and respiratory issues. Supporting gum health is one part of maintaining overall wellness.

How can you protect your gums every day?

Dr. Jean Marius encourages patients to focus on daily habits that fit into real life and are easy to maintain. He also says, “Educating yourself about the disease process and the different causes of gum disease is one of the most helpful steps you can take to prevent it.” Helpful habits include:

• Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, gently angling the brush toward the gumline

• Cleaning between teeth daily using floss, interdental brushes or a water flosser

• Using antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended by your care team

• Staying hydrated, especially in Melbourne’s warm climate

• Avoiding tobacco products

For patients with a family history of gum disease or medications that cause dry mouth, personalized guidance can help adjust routines to better support gum health.

How Aspen Dental in Melbourne, FL supports gum health

At Aspen Dental in Melbourne, FL, gum health is part of every comprehensive exam. Dr. Jean Marius and the care team focus on education, prevention and early support.

Care may include:

• Gum health evaluations during routine exams

• Professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar

• Deep cleanings when needed to address active gum disease

• Personalized home care recommendations

Dr. Marius takes time to explain exam findings clearly and answer questions, helping patients feel informed and supported throughout their care. Same-day or next-day appointments may be available, and occasional extended hours help accommodate busy schedules. The office serves families across the Space Coast and surrounding communities.

Insurance and payment options

Most dental insurance plans include coverage for preventive care and gum disease treatment. Aspen Dental in Melbourne, FL works with most PPO insurance plans and reviews benefits before treatment begins.

Medicaid is not accepted at Aspen Dental offices.

For patients without insurance or those needing additional flexibility, financing options through third-party lenders are available. Many patients who apply for financing are approved, allowing care to be planned over time. Clear cost estimates are provided after exams so you know what to expect before moving forward.

When should Melbourne, FL residents schedule a gum health evaluation?

Consider scheduling an evaluation if you notice:

• Bleeding during brushing or flossing

• Swollen or tender gums

• Persistent bad breath

• Changes in how your teeth fit together

Even without symptoms, routine visits every six months allow your care team to monitor gum health and address changes early.

National Gum Disease Awareness Month is a reminder that caring for your gums supports both oral and overall health.

Frequently asked questions about gum disease

Can gum disease be reversed once it starts?

Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can often be managed with professional cleaning and improved home care. At this stage, the gums may return to a healthier state when addressed early.

If gum disease progresses to periodontitis and bone loss occurs, the damage cannot be reversed. However, treatment can help manage the condition and support long-term gum health. This is why Dr. Jean Marius emphasizes early detection through regular dental visits.

Does Aspen Dental accept Medicaid for gum disease treatment?

No. Medicaid is not accepted at Aspen Dental offices. Aspen Dental in Melbourne, FL works with most PPO insurance plans and offers financing options through third-party lenders to help make care more accessible. The care team reviews coverage and explains costs before treatment begins.

How often do I need cleanings if I have gum disease?

Patients with a history of gum disease may be recommended professional cleanings every three to four months rather than the standard six-month schedule. These visits allow the care team to monitor gum health and address buildup early. Dr. Marius develops a personalized maintenance schedule based on each patient’s needs and how their gums respond to treatment.

When should you schedule your next appointment?

If you notice bleeding during brushing, swollen gums or ongoing bad breath, scheduling a visit sooner can help address concerns early. Even without symptoms, routine visits every six months allow your care team to monitor gum health over time.

National Gum Disease Awareness Month is a reminder that caring for your gums supports both oral and overall health.

When you’re ready, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Jean Marius at Aspen Dental in Melbourne, FL by calling the office or booking online. The care team is here to help you take the next step with clarity and support.