According to the Centers for Disease Control, over half of adults aged 30 and older suffer from some stage of periodontal disease. Without treatment, this serious and widespread oral health concern could mean the loss of natural teeth! In order to prevent this disease, we’re going to talk about what our Richfield, MN, patients can do to keep their smiles strong and healthy.
The Factors Behind Periodontal Trouble
The disease begins when the gum tissue becomes inflamed, which could occur as a result of poor oral hygiene, family history of the disease, smoking and tobacco use, and other factors. Without treatment, the inflammation eventually causes the gums to pull away for the teeth and form pockets, which bacteria infiltrate, allowing the disease to develop. Warning signs include soreness and redness in the gums, as well as bleeding and swelling, or even recession. If you begin to experience one or more of these warning signs, then please let our team know right away.
The Dangers to Your Smile
Without treatment, the disease will only grow more severe with time. Eventually, periodontitis develops, the advanced stage of the disease that destroys the tissues connecting your teeth and gums, leading to adult tooth loss. When you lose your teeth, this could subsequently lead to loss of jawbone density, further tooth loss, and an aged appearance. Protecting your smile from the disease also protects your facial structure and overall appearance!
Preventive Options
Plaque buildup, which forms on the teeth after bacteria break down food particles, is a major factor behind the initial gum inflammation. By brushing and flossing your teeth daily, you remove stray food particles trapped on or between the teeth, which helps improve the health of your smile, including your gums. We also suggest you quit smoking and avoid the use of tobacco products. Also, make time to see our team every six months for a checkup and cleaning. During your visit, we will examine your gums for signs of trouble. A cleaning also completely removes all plaque from the teeth, which helps significantly reduce your risk of developing gum disease. If you have substantial plaque buildup, we may recommend a deep cleaning, known as a scaling and root planing, to control the buildup and protect your gums. If you have any questions or concerns about your gum health, then please contact our team today.
Do You Have Bleeding Gums?
If you experience the warning signs of gum disease, then contact our team to discuss possible treatment options. Remember, healthy gums help prevent bleeding when you brush and floss, as well as tooth loss. To learn more about periodontal health, schedule a consultation with Dr. Keller by calling Cedar West Family Dentistry in Richfield, MN, today at (612) 861-7188.
