FAQs For National Gum Care Month
Did you know that more than half of all adults over 30 have gum disease? Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is serious business; if left untreated it can lead to tooth decay, mouth infections, and eventually tooth loss. Untreated gum disease can even affect the health of your heart.
There’s good news, though! You can act now to prevent gum disease from developing. In honor of September’s National Gum Care Month, here at Compassion Smiles Dentistry we’ve come up with the answers to some frequently asked questions about gum disease and how to prevent it.
What Causes Gum Disease?
When the bacteria on your teeth isn’t regularly removed by a regular routine of brushing and flossing, it can cause an infection to develop in your mouth. As a result, the gums may become red and inflamed and start to separate from the teeth This can lead to degeneration of the jaw bone and eventually tooth loss.
How Do I Know If I Have It?
Gum disease can be virtually symptomless until it becomes advanced. Smokers, in particular, may not realize they have gum disease because nicotine reduces blood flow to the mouth. However, make sure to see your dentist if you are experiencing bleeding gums after brushing, bad mouth odors, or loosening teeth.
What Can I Do About It?
If you have mild gum disease, a professional cleaning and starting a good routine of brushing, flossing, and using antibacterial mouthwash may be all that’s needed to allow the mouth to heal. If you suffer from moderate to severe gum disease, however, more specialized treatment may be needed. Your dentist may have to clean the surfaces of your tooth roots or even perform oral surgery.
How Can I Prevent It?
There is no better way to prevent the development of gum disease than a meticulous routine of oral hygiene at home. It is also helpful to avoid sugary drinks and snacks as well as tobacco. If you’d like to schedule a cleaning or a dental exam please call Compassion Smiles Dentistry today. We’re here to help you win the battle against gum disease!