According to the American Dental Association, almost 50% of Americans over the age of 30 are living with gum disease. The scary thing is that many of these people have no idea that they suffer from a hazardous condition which threatens the health of their smile.
Preventing Gum Disease in Cherry Hill
Preventing gum disease is simple, but itâs not easy. What we mean is that practicing a daily regimen of preventative dental care and visiting your dentist for a check-up at least twice a year will dramatically reduce your chances of suffering from the long-term consequences of gum disease. Thatâs not complicated, but it does require a lot of work.
You need to see your dentist regularly to prevent gum disease, and you must see your dentist right away if youâre already suffering from the condition. The situation will probably get worse without intervention.
What Causes Gum Disease
Plaque is the film which forms on your teeth after you eat. Regular brushing and flossing helps to remove the plaque, but if it is allowed to remain on the teeth, it hardens and becomes tartar, the rough substance that feels like sandpaper on the back of your teeth. The bacteria that causes gum disease lives inside plaque and tartar.
Gingivitis–The First Stage of Gum Disease
Gingivitis is gum disease in its early form. Along with regular check-ups from your dentist, daily brushing and flossing can counteract the effects of gingivitis before it becomes a serious threat to your smile.
PeriodontitisâA More Severe Form of Gum Disease
Left unabated, gingivitis can progress until it becomes periodontitis, a much more critical condition. As the infection advances deeper into your gums, the symptoms become more apparent and the risk to your smile grows.
If you suffer from any of the following symptoms, you probably have serious gum disease:
- Teeth shift around so they donât âfitâ together
- Brushing causes pain
- Brushing causes bleeding
- Loose teeth
- Chewing causes pain
- Gums are red, painful, and swollen
- Bad breath
- Gaps develop between your teeth
- Teeth fall out
Long-Term Effects of Gum Disease
As gum disease advances, it will wreak havoc on your smile. Eventually, it could lead to the loss of one or several teeth. But believe it or not, it gets worse. Researchers have discovered links and potential links between gum disease and several serious grave health conditions, including the following:
- Heart disease
- Strokes
- Heart attacks
- Diabetes
- Respiratory disease
- Premature childbirth
Contact Our Office for an Appointment Today
As you can see, gum disease is a critical problem that wonât go away on its own. The best thing you can do to fight gum disease is to take care of your teeth every day and visit your dentist regularly. Donât you think itâs time to call Dr. Craig S. Donn to schedule a check-up right away?