Your dentist probably talks a lot about gum disease. There are many reasons why this is an important topic for your oral health and overall wellness. If this condition goes untreated, you could suffer tooth loss, bone loss, and even feel the effects of serious infections. Fortunately, this disease is treatable and preventable. It is also helpful to understand what causes the disease and when you may be more prone to having it.
Gum disease is a common condition that patients encounter. It can affect people of all ages, and it comes in different stages of severity. It begins as gingivitis, manifested by swelling and bleeding in the gums. It can develop into periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss and bone loss.
Certain groups of people may be more prone to having the disease. It is frequent among people who do not brush and floss regularly or effectively. People who are obese or who smoke are at a higher risk of developing it. Genetics can increase a person’s chances of having periodontitis, as can hormonal changes.
There are reasons why a general dentist urges people to brush after eating. After finishing a meal, pieces of food will stick to teeth, stay on gums, and hide in between teeth. Brushing and flossing will remove these particles, keeping the teeth clean. The longer pieces of food stay in these places, the more likely that gum disease will start.
When the person does not effectively remove food after eating, bacteria will start to show up. It can show up on the gums, the surfaces of teeth, and in pockets in between teeth. The bacteria will eventually turn into a sticky substance known as plaque. Only frequent care can get rid of plaque, as it comes back quickly and often.
If the individual or the dentist does not remove the plaque, it will start to harden. When it does, it becomes what is known as tartar. This will directly lead to gum disease. Tartar is difficult, if not impossible, to remove by brushing and flossing alone. The dentist will have to treat it and get rid of it in the office with professional methods. Plaque will start to destroy the gum tissue and teeth at the gumline.
In later stages, gum disease shows up at periodontitis. The persons’ gums will be red and inflamed. There could be pain while chewing and brushing. The pockets of bacteria at the gumline will grow and become deeper. Infections can develop and spread throughout the mouth and into other parts of the body.
Now is the right time to prevent this disease or eliminate it. Ignoring the symptoms can have drastic effects on the way you feel and look. Learn about how periodontitis forms and what you can do to prevent its arrival. Talk to your dentist about the strategies you can employ to have good oral health. Make an appointment today so your general dentist can examine your teeth and gums.
Request an appointment here: https://www.belairdentalassociates.com or call Belair Dental Associates at (706) 426-5520 for an appointment in our Evans office.
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