Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, occurs when the tissues that surround and support your teeth become infected. It is caused by plaque, which is a sticky build-up caused by food, drink, and bacteria that is constantly forming on our teeth.
Unfortunately, gum disease is usually painless which it makes it hard to know you have it unless a dentist diagnoses it. While it is painless, there are a few warning signs that could mean you have a problem: bleeding gums, a change in your bite, bad breath, separating teeth, gums that have pulled away and red or swollen gums. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and a change in eating and communicating.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, researchers have discovered a correlation between gum disease and other serious health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
You can reduce your risk of gum disease with proper dental care including proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups as well as living a healthy lifestyle including regular physical activity, maintaining a normal weight and a healthy diet.
If it’s been awhile since you’ve been to see us or you have any of the above symptoms, give us a call today to schedule your next appointment.