The Threat of Gum Disease

There are many people who are unhappy with their dental health. These conditions could range from anything between having crooked teeth, bad breath or a discolored smile. Although each of these conditions require separate treatments, the majority of your problems can be prevented through professional cleanings and keeping to regular dentist check ups.

Most dental issues begin with the accumulation of plaque, tooth decay and gum disease. Gum disease occurs when plaque, a mixture of saliva, food particles and bacteria, is not removed from the teeth. This allows the bacteria to create harmful acids which erode the teeth and cause cavities. However, if neglected, gum disease can cause more damage to our whole mouth structure, resulting in periodontal disease, which causes the loss of jawbone and gum tissue.

Proper oral hygiene, good nutritional food, and regular dental visits can prevent dental problems from progressing into periodontitis.

You can prevent gum disease by following these simple steps:

• Brush your teeth correctly twice a day.
• Avoid smoking, drugs, chewing tobacco or clenching and grinding your teeth, which all cause damage to the structure or health of your teeth.
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove food particles and bits of food that may be trapped under the gums.
• Visit the dentist once every six months for a cleaning or check up to catch conditions in their early stages and maintain good oral health.

Gum disease is known to not only affect the mouth, as an unhealthy mouth can mean an unhealthy body. Gum disease can become a risk factor for other diseases, such as heart and lung diseases, it can worsen the effects of certain diabetes and induce preterm labor in pregnant women.

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, 50% of adult Americans have gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease, and about 30% of American adults have periodontitis. If you are showing any of the following signs or symptoms, you should get in contact with our Mesa, Arizona practice right away.

The Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease:

• Blood on your toothbrush after brushing your teeth
• Gums bleeding after flossing
• Sore, inflamed or puffy gum tissue
• Wobbly and/or loose teeth
• Gums receding around the teeth
• Bad breath
• Pus at the gum line
• Pain when biting down or chewing
• Recent change in your bite
• Spaces that have appeared between teeth
• Food getting lodged up in your gums