Five Facts About Gum Disease
Few things are more harmful and less understood than gum disease. This oral health issue, also known as periodontal disease, is a prevalent issue across the world that affects adults everywhere.
Gum disease develops from an infection in the gums. When an infection reaches the gums, it can create what is known as a periodontal pocket between the gum and the tooth. This infection can go on to erode the gums and bone and create substantial dental problems down the road.
Here are some facts about gum disease to consider:
- Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss. We’re all told from an early age by our parents to brush our teeth to keep them from falling out. It’s true that brushing is can reduce the risk of cavities and that big cavities can lead to tooth loss, but gum disease is the real culprit. Gum disease develops slowly, and in its advanced stages, gum disease can erode gums and bone. When the infection caused by gum disease reaches the bone, the infection often weakens the structure that supports the tooth and leads to tooth loss. While brushing twice a day is great way to reduce tooth decay, flossing regularly is the best way to reduce your risk of gum problems.
- Gum disease can been linked to heart disease and diabetes. Studies have found a connection between gum disease and diabetes and gum disease and heart disease. Researchers have found that the same inflammation and plaque that creates gum disease has been found to cause heart problems and diabetes. This means that gum disease affects much more than your teeth and gums. Gum disease is an overall oral health that can lower your quality of life.
- Gum disease can come with little or no sign. It’s true that bleeding or swollen gums are a clear sign of gum disease or gingivitis, but that doesn’t you are clear of gum disease if you do not have those symptoms. Quite the contrary. It’s possible to have gum disease without showing any physical signs. The only way to ensure that you are free of gum disease is to maintain your regular visits with the dentist. Our staff is trained to identify and treat gum disease with minimally invasive tactics.
- Some people face a higher risk of gum disease. Some of us are more genetically likely to get gum disease, while others face a higher risk due to changes in the body. Women are more likely to get gum disease during pregnancy or menopause because of hormonal changes that occur in the body.
- About 75 percent of people will have some form of gum disease. Gum disease so prevalent that it will affect most people at some point in their life. Given that this problem can lead to tooth loss and has been connected to problems like heart disease and diabetes, I consider gum disease to be an epidemic. If left untreated, gum disease can simply take over your mouth and cause very serious problems.
How We Treat Gum Disease
Our office uses aggressive and minimally invasive treatments to treat gum disease. We offer deep cleanings for patients who have signs of gum disease. To clean out the periodontal pocket, we numb the area and then remove the tartar and plaque from the tooth below the gum line. The procedure is done in a way that it allows the gum and tooth to easily and naturally re-attach.
To help patients stay free of gum disease, we also commonly use a special system that periodically releases antibiotics to keep the periodontal pocket free of infection.
Bacteria that creates gum disease can multiply quickly, so we ask patients with a history of gum disease to visit our office every three to four months. Gum disease is not an issue that goes away on its own. In fact, it will only get worse if it is left untreated.
If you have signs of gum disease like bleeding or swollen gums, bad breath or tooth pains, call our office today and schedule a visit. You’ll find that we are gentle and compassionate and provide state-of-the-art care that can keep your mouth healthy for years to come.