Studies by the Centers for Disease Control show that half of adults over the age of 30 suffer from gum disease. Without treatment, this could mean uncomfortable symptoms and even the potential loss of your natural teeth! In today’s blog, your Austin, MN, dentists want to help you recognize the warning signs of gum disease.
The Causes of Periodontal Disease
How does this disease form? Often, our daily actions and habits increase our risk. For example, initial inflammation could start due to plaque and tartar buildup coating the teeth and irritating gingival tissues. The buildup could be caused by a diet high in sugary and food and drinks, and poor brushing and flossing habits, which fail to remove these particles before bacteria break them down. Smoking cigarettes and using tobacco products could increase your risk, as could a lack of professional dental cleanings. A family history of the disease is a factor too, along with inflammatory illnesses and certain medications. Unless treatment is administered to reverse inflammation, the gums could pull away from the teeth, forming pockets for bacteria to enter and leading to periodontal disese!
Warning Signs of Gingivitis and Disease
People with gingivitis or the early stages of periodontal disease may experience sore, red gums that bleed easily. As the disease worsens, swelling could occur, and the tissue could pull away from the teeth, making your teeth look long and increasing the risk of serious complications.
Dangers for Your Smile
Did you know the advanced stage of the disease, known as periodontitis, could sever the tissues connecting your teeth and gums, causing adult tooth loss? Well, now you do! So how do we avoid this? What care could be offered once periodontal issues arise and threaten your smile?
Possible Prevention and Treatment
Gingivitis can be reversed with a scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning that removes harmful buildup from the teeth and the roots. Gum disease cannot be cured, but we can administer treatment to begin the process of managing it, following up with routine cleanings every three to four months. To avoid the issue altogether, be sure you brush and flossing daily, cut back on sugary foods and drinks, avoid tobacco products, and see us for a cleaning visit every six months. These actions let us keep a close eye on your smile, and reduce the risk of inflammation and disease. If you have any questions about how we to prevent or manage issues like periodontal disease, and avoid tooth loss, the contact our team today to learn more.
Do You Have Questions About Keeping Smiles Strong?
We want to help you enjoy a full and healthy smile by addressing periodontal issues. For more information on diagnosis and treating issues related to your gum health, contact Potach and Mitchel Dental in Austin, MN, today at 507-437-6312.
