05 Nov Why Gum Disease Is So Dangerous: The Importance of Gum Health
What’s a little gingivitis? It can’t be that bad…only old people get gum disease, right?
Gum disease is one of the most commonly diagnosed dental problems in the United States. It’s the leading cause of tooth loss, and the number one reason for root canals. It causes infections, tooth decay, and even bone loss. Yet most people don’t take it seriously.
Our dentists explain the dangers of gum disease —”periodontitis” to us—and what you can do to prevent it.
Three Reasons Why Gum Disease Is So Dangerous
1: It Only Gets Worse Over Time
Periodontitis is a progressive disease. If you’re past the first stage (gingivitis) there is no way to reverse the damage. You will be able to keep it from progressing if you get regular treatments, but if you ignore the warning signs it will only get worse.
2: Gum Disease Can Strike at Any Age
If you think you’re too young to have gum disease, you’re mistaken. It isn’t just something that affects elderly people—young adults, teens, and even children can get gum disease, too. If you don’t want to get stuck with gum disease for the rest of your life, make sure you go to all of your dental checkups.
3: Most People Don’t Take It Seriously
Do your gums bleed when you floss your teeth? Are your teeth sensitive to hot or cold? If so, you should see a dentist. It’s not normal for your gums to bleed—ever. Bleeding gums are actually one of the first signs of gum disease. And if your teeth are sensitive, buying a “sensitive teeth” toothpaste won’t solve the problem.
The Importance of Gum Health
Your gums are what hold your teeth in place. They also protect your tooth roots, which don’t have any enamel. If your gums get infected, they can cause tooth decay, bone loss in the jaw, and infections throughout your body. When your gum health is compromised, your entire wellbeing is compromised, as well.
Early detection and preventive treatment can help you avoid receding gums, tooth loss, and costly procedures like root canals or implants. Ignoring the signs of gum disease will only lead to more serious problems and permanent damage. But even if you haven’t noticed any symptoms, you should never skip your routine dental exams. Even if you don’t notice the symptoms, your dentist will.
What You Can Do to Prevent Gum Disease
Even though it’s very common, gum disease can be prevented. The best place to start is with good oral hygiene. Plaque and tartar buildup causes the chronic inflammation and infections that trigger gingivitis. By making a few adjustments to your daily habits—and going to the dentist twice a year—will help you prevent gum disease and keep your gums healthy.
Tips for Preventing Gum Disease
- Floss your teeth every single day, and make sure you’re flossing the right way. (Ask your dental hygienist for a demonstration at your next checkup!)
- Drink more water. Gum disease is much more common in people with dry mouth, because a dry mouth makes it easier for plaque to multiply.
- Quit bad habits like smoking or vaping that cause dry mouth and increase your risk of gum disease.
- Make sure you’re getting enough B12 and Vitamin C. These important vitamins are crucial for good gum health and resistance to infections.
Preventive Treatments for Gum Disease in Prescott, Arizona
Regular dental checkups are the best way to prevent cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. So don’t be shy—we want to see you so we can check for warning signs. As a holistic practice, we’re all about preventing problems like gum disease before they get worse. We also offer painless, non-invasive treatments like laser therapy and ozone therapy that prevent the progression of gum disease.
If you’re due for a checkup, contact Prescott Dentistry to make an appointment today.
Photo by Greg Bulla on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 10/29/2024.