Everything You Need to Know About Gum Disease
Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is a serious dental health condition. Periodontal disease is typically a result of poor oral hygiene.
Periodontitis does not specifically happen to adults as they age but can occur to anyone at any age. According to the CDC, 47.2 percent of adults that are over 30 years old experience periodontitis.
Although periodontal disease is common, individuals should take steps to reduce the risk of developing this oral health condition.
What is Periodontitis
Periodontal disease is a gum infection that damages the soft tissue of the gums and can even damage the bone in a person’s mouth.
Periodontitis causes teeth to become loose and to fall out in some cases.
When an individual has periodontal disease, their gums will appear swollen and puffy with red or purplish coloring. Other symptoms of this serious dental condition include:
- Bad breath
- Pus between gums and teeth
- Gums that bleed easily
- Tender gums
- New spacing between teeth
Moreover, periodontitis can also exhibit symptoms such as receding gums, a blood-tinged toothbrush, and spitting out blood after brushing or flossing.
Periodontal disease develops due to plaque formation that is left on the teeth and then turns into gingivitis. Gingivitis is the irritation and inflammation of a person’s gums. Gingivitis that does not undergo treatment will cause periodontitis.
How to Prevent Gum Disease
Regular brushing and flossing are essential to prevent plaque and tartar build-up, which develops into gingivitis and then periodontal disease. Brushing at least twice a day for two minutes and flossing at least once a day will reduce the chance of plaque and tartar build-up. Brushing and flossing remove bacteria and food particles that can cause gum irritation and tooth decay.
In addition to good oral hygiene, dental check-ups are another way to prevent periodontal disease. A person should schedule and attend appointments every six to 12 months to ensure any dental issues are carefully noted and monitored. A dentist can remove plaque, tartar, and treat gingivitis with regular check-ups.
Gum Disease Treatment With Dr. Pollock
Gum disease is a serious condition that can wreak havoc on an individual’s oral health. Contact the team at Rockwall Oral Surgery to discuss treatment options for periodontal disease.
Ready to make your dental goals a reality? Our team is eager to assist our patients with personalized periodontal disease treatment options. Contact Dr. Pollock at Rockwall Oral Surgery to schedule a dental appointment. We are available by phone at (469) 264-8921 or email at info@dentalimplantsurgery.com.
We look forward to helping people find relief from their gum and dental pain!
