September is Gum Care Month, making it the perfect time to give your gums a little extra attention. While most people know that brushing and flossing are important, gum disease is still incredibly common. In fact, nearly half of American adults over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease.
That means there is a good chance that you or someone you know has experienced this common oral health condition. But how much do you really know about it? Here are some interesting facts that may surprise you.
Gum Disease Can Be Easy to Miss
One of the tricky things about gum disease is that it does not always cause obvious symptoms in its early stages. You might not experience significant pain or discomfort, even while inflammation and infection are developing around your teeth.
Bleeding when you brush or floss, red or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, and tender gums can all be warning signs. Paying attention to these changes and mentioning them during dental visits can help catch problems before they become more advanced.
Gum Disease Has Different Stages
Gum disease is not an all-or-nothing condition. It generally begins with gingivitis, which occurs when plaque buildup causes inflammation of the gums. At this stage, the condition can often be managed or reversed with improved oral hygiene and professional care.
Without treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that affects the tissues supporting your teeth. Advanced periodontal disease can eventually contribute to tooth loss.
Plaque Is a Major Culprit
That fuzzy feeling you sometimes notice on your teeth is not just a cosmetic nuisance. Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that continually forms on your teeth. If it is not removed regularly, it can irritate your gums.
Brushing twice a day and cleaning between your teeth every day are essential for removing plaque from areas your toothbrush may miss. Professional dental care is also important for removing hardened deposits that cannot be brushed away at home.
Your Gums Can Affect More Than Your Smile
Your mouth does not exist separately from the rest of your body. Gum disease involves inflammation and infection, and researchers have found associations between periodontal disease and several systemic health conditions.
That does not mean gum disease directly causes every health condition it has been associated with. However, the connections are another good reason to take gum health seriously and keep up with preventive care.
Gum Disease Can Affect Anyone
Although the risk of gum disease tends to increase with age, it is not simply an inevitable part of getting older. Genetics, oral hygiene, tobacco use, certain medications, and other factors can influence your risk.
The good news? There are plenty of steps you can take to protect your gums. Brush thoroughly, clean between your teeth, maintain regular dental visits, and let your dental professional know if you notice changes in your gums.
Your gums deserve just as much attention as your teeth.
About the Practice
Sehnert Precision Dentistry provides comprehensive dental care with an emphasis on personalized treatment and long-term oral health. The practice offers care for a variety of dental needs, including periodontal and gum disease treatment, with a focus on helping patients maintain healthy, functional smiles. Dr. Sehgal and Dr. Eddingtin work with patients to identify oral health concerns and develop individualized treatment plans.
Call us at (972) 420-0042 or schedule your appointment online