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Your grandparents are not the only ones that can get gum disease, it can happen to anyone. Nearly 80 percent of adults have periodontal disease during their lifetime. The leading cause of tooth loss for people in the United States is not old age, as many often think. Rather, the leading cause of tooth loss is periodontal disease, otherwise known as gum disease. Whether your gum disease is stopped, slowed, or gets worse depends greatly on how well you care for your teeth and gums, from here on out. Prevention is key in maintaining a healthy smile. Gum Disease Signs and Causes As gum disease progresses, the bone tends to recede. In some cases, the root of your tooth can become exposed, causing tooth sensitivity. Since bone recession is not visible to the naked eye, left untreated it, may contribute to tooth loss. It is very important to visit your dentist for professional examinations and dental cleanings to effectively and properly identify gum disease. Some common signs of gum disease include:
• Bleeding gums during tooth brushing or flossing
• Sensitive, red or swollen gums
• Bad breath
• Teeth that are loose or appear to have shifted Many people may not even be aware that they have gum disease, because it is often not painful. Additional gum disease symptoms include mouth sores, itchy gums, bad breath, an unpleasant taste and gum recession. Each cause of gum disease can be corrected and controlled. While poor hygiene is usually the main cause of gum disease, there are a number of other factors that can contribute to the development of it as well, including: • Smoking
• Diabetes
• Certain medications
• Substance abuse
• Pregnancy
• Genetics
• Stress
• Poor nutrition Prevention Begins at Home Our mouths are full of bacteria, which constantly form a sticky, colorless plaque on your teeth. Brushing and flossing help rid your mouth of plaque, but when plaque is not removed it can harden, forming a tartar that brushing doesn't clean. Only a cleaning from your dentist in Fishkill can completely remove the tartar. Regular dental exams are necessary to remove tartar and detect early signs of periodontal disease, but you play an important role in preventing tartar from forming. Some simple measures you can take to keep your teeth healthy include: • Brush your teeth twice a day
• Floss every day
• Visit the dentist routinely for a check-up and professional cleaning
• Do not smoke
• Eat right The most important way to prevent gingivitis and later stages of gum disease is to maintain good oral hygiene. Choosing the right toothbrush is also important for gum disease prevention. Softer brushes are less likely to injure your gums, and electric toothbrushes often seem to encourage better brushing habits. Remember not to overdo because brushing too long or too hard can do more harm than good. If gum disease is caught in its earliest stages, it is extremely manageable. If you are experiencing bleeding while brushing or any other symptoms of gum disease, contact your Beacon dentist for further examination. Remember, early diagnosis and prevention are key in the maintenance of your smile.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Hongli Wang, leading Beacon, Fishkill and Newburgh dentist. Offering comprehensive dental care for the entire family, including cosmetic dentistry and implants in Fishkill, Newburgh and Beacon, Dr. Wang is qualified to handle any dental need.
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