Almost Half of Adults Suffer from Gum Disease
Over 47% of Americans over the age of thirty suffer from some form of gum disease according to the Center for Disease Control. The really scary thing is that many of these people have no idea that having an infection that can wreak havoc on their smile.
If left untreated, gum disease can cause pain, swelling, and the loss of teeth. Furthermore, recent research has uncovered links between gum disease and a number of serious medical conditions, including:
- Cancer
- Heart disease and heart attacks
- Premature childbirth
- Osteoporosis
- Strokes
- Respiratory disease
- Diabetes
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection caused by bacteria that feeds on the plaque and tartar on your teeth. Plaque is the film that forms on your teeth after a meal. If this plaque is not removed by regular brushing and flossing, it can harden and become tartar, the rough substance that your dental hygienist scrapes off your teeth during your regular check-ups.
Symptoms of Advanced Gum Disease
If gum disease is not treated in time, it can progress to advanced periodontitis, the most critical stage of gum disease. Symptoms of advanced periodontitis include:
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
- The shape of your bite has changed and teeth no longer “fit” together
- Swollen, red, bleeding, and sensitive gums
- Teeth are falling out
- A constant bad taste in your mouth
- Pus emits from gums
- Chewing causes pain
- Gums “pull away” from teeth, making teeth appear larger
- Teeth slide around your gums
Don’t Neglect Your Gums
The good news is that Dr. Scott Anderson has several ways to treat gum disease before it becomes a serious threat to your smile. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment so we can help your protect your teeth and gums for life.