Gum Disease – Incidence
According to the American Dental Association, gum disease affects about 80% of the US population. That’s 4 out of every 5 people. And this is because most people don’t spend the time necessary to properly clean their teeth and gums daily. Research has shown that gum disease leads to serious medical problems. And since this disease is rarely painful in its early stages, you cannot tell there is anything wrong. But gum disease has a few universal signs and symptoms.
Signs of Gum Disease
As our San Marcos dentist explains, some of the common signs of this disease are:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Stains and tartar on the teeth
- Teeth feeling rough or fuzzy
- Bad breath
- Loosening or drifting of the teeth
- Gums looking a dark red or bright red color
- Pain in the gums – usually starts in later stages of gum disease
- Pain while chewing food
- Food particles getting lodged and embedded in the gums
- Gums looking puffy and bloated
- Receding gums making the teeth look longer
As if the dental implications of gum disease are not bad enough, periodontal disease has been linked to heart attack, stroke, and more. Follow this link to learn more about the correlation between this disorder and serious medical consequences.
Gum Disease – Treatment
Fortunately, with proper care and necessary treatment, we can successfully manage this condition. There is no “cure” for this disease. But it can be successfully controlled. Our dentist is trained in detecting, diagnosing, and treating gum disease both in its early and later stages. Without proper home care gum disease cannot be controlled. That’s why we emphasize and spend time educating our patients on the correct way to brush and floss their teeth. Patients often realize that with the proper home care they can help protect their teeth against gum disease for now and into the future.
Take charge of your dental and overall health. Contact us now.