4 Out of 10 US Adults Have Gum Disease — Do You?
Did you know that, according to the Journal of the American Dental Association, about 42% of U.S. adults over the age of 30 have gum disease? Sadly, one of the most common causes of gum disease is poor oral hygiene.
The first stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. At this early stage, you may notice red, swollen, or bloody gums. Gingivitis is easily treated and reversed. However, if it is left untreated, it progresses to a more serious form, called periodontitis, which can result in tooth loss, or worse. If you learn the symptoms and get treatment early, you can prevent serious problems later.
The Signs
Though younger adults and teenagers can develop gingivitis, signs usually don’t start showing up until the 30s or 40s. Men tend to suffer from gum disease more often than women. Statistics show that women are more proactive than men when it comes to oral health, so they may be identifying problems before they progress.
Some medical conditions produce a higher risk for gum disease, including diabetes, hormonal changes in girls and women, medications that affect saliva, and genetic factors. Another significant risk group is smokers. Not only does smoking double your risk for gum disease, it also makes it harder for gums to heal after treatment.
Signs of gum disease include:
- Bad breath (halitosis) that just won’t go away
- Red or swollen gums
- Receding gums
- Tender gums or gums that bleed easily
- Pain when chewing
- Loose or sensitive permanent teeth
The Treatment
Your first line of defense against gum disease is good oral hygiene. Brush and floss regularly. No matter how vigilant you are, however, there will be spots that will be hard to reach where plaque and tartar can build up. Regular appointments for an exam and cleaning can catch this buildup early.
At your appointment with us, we will examine your gums for signs of inflammation and measure pockets around the teeth. Tartar and plaque that contribute to gum disease will be removed using special tools. If gum disease is present, our primary goal is to control the infection. We may suggest lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, to improve treatment results.
Our goal is to save your teeth and prevent, or reverse, the effects of gum disease. If you show any of the signs of gum disease, or haven’t had a regular checkup recently, we encourage you to make an appointment as soon as possible. We serve patients in Rossville, California, and the surrounding areas, so contact our office today to keep your smile bright and your gums healthy!
