Are you someone who often relies on that extra kick from an energy drink to get through the day? While they might seem like a quick fix to beat the afternoon slump or power…
When considering your personal oral health, it’s easy to only think about your teeth and how they look or feel. But what about your gums? The gums are the framework of your smile! When these soft tissues are ignored or neglected, however, it can pose serious risks to your dental health and overall health. Is gum disease on your radar?
According to the CDC, nearly half (46%) of all adults aged 30 years or older show signs of gum disease; severe gum disease affects about 9% of adults. While gum disease is easily treated at its earliest stages, it can quickly progress to compromise your smile and body health if left alone. In fact, advanced and untreated gum disease has been linked to tooth loss as well as stroke, heart disease, diabetes and premature birth. This advanced stage of gum disease can be avoided by visiting your dentist twice a year, as the gums are always monitored during routine dental exams.
Gum disease is essentially an infection within the soft tissues that support your teeth. The infection starts when plaque hardens below the gum line, which is often a result of poor oral hygiene. When this plaque emits bacteria and combines with food particles lodged in between teeth, the infection can accelerate quickly. Gum disease may appear as red, puffy or irritated gums at first (gingivitis), but it can eventually damage surrounding bone and cause the gums to pull away from the tooth roots.
Can you recognize the signs of gum disease on your own? What begins as red or bleeding gums can quickly progress to receding gums and loose teeth if proper treatment is not initiated.
The common warning signs of gum disease include the following:
At Montevallo Family Dentistry, we can help you understand your specific risk factors for gum disease as well as which lifestyle habits may be contributing to your oral health condition. We offer the most proven treatments to reverse gum disease, so that you never have to suffer its serious consequences. If you are experiencing bleeding or receding gums, we invite you to call Dr. Shunnarah today.
Posted on behalf of Montevallo Family Dentistry
Are you someone who often relies on that extra kick from an energy drink to get through the day? While they might seem like a quick fix to beat the afternoon slump or power…
