The Little Known Facts about Gum Disease

Chances are you have heard of gum disease and one point or another, but are you aware of its seriousness?  If you choose to ignore the early signs of gum disease, you put yourself at risk for periodontal disease, which could cause such devastation as losing your natural teeth and suffering from bone loss. These little known facts about this disease can help you to save your teeth in the long run.

• There are not always obvious signs that you have gum disease. Some people have bleeding or puffy gums as an early sign, but not everyone does. You might have gum disease and not even know it until you come in for your appointment.
• If you have gum disease, there are simple remedies to keep it from progressing into periodontal disease. One such remedy is the scaling and root planing procedure which cleans your roots and eliminates the disease.
• If you have diagnosed gum disease, it is sometimes recommended that you come in once every 4 months instead of 6 months in order to ensure that the gum disease does not return.
• Aside from the obvious bleeding or puffy gums, bad breath, loose teeth, and receding gums are all signs of progressed gum disease.
• Gum disease can be prevented with regular brushing and flossing on a daily basis as well as visiting the dentist for a regular cleaning once every 6 months.
• Not flossing at least once a day can put you at high risk for gum disease because the bacteria between your teeth is left to grow and damage your gums.
• Smoking can greatly increase your chance to contact gum disease.
• Stress can not only negatively impact your physical health, but your oral health as well. It has been shown to be a factor in gum disease.
• Poor diet can contribute to gum disease, especially when it is in combination with poor oral hygiene habits.
• Gum disease is a not a required part of aging – if you have it, you need to get treated right away.

Gum disease is nothing to take lightly; if you exhibit any signs of this disease, you should be seen right away. Even if you do not think that you have any signs of this disease, having a professional evaluate your oral health is the only way to know for sure that your gums are healthy and free from the risk of gum disease.