Gum Disease: Why You Want to Prevent It

Good oral hygiene keeps your smile flawless. But there’s more to oral hygiene than brushing and flossing. Harmful bacteria can linger below the gumline. An area that's not easy to reach. No matter how often you brush. You might not think gum disease is something you should worry about. But it's pretty common. In fact, 64.7 million Americans have a serious gum disease, known as periodontal disease.

Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and widespread inflammation. It can ruin your health. Which is why it's important to spot the early stages of gum disease before it progresses.

About gum disease

Gum disease begins with gingivitis, a gum inflammation caused by plaque build-up. Your gums become inflamed and bleed often. Good at-home hygiene and dedicated professional cleanings can reverse gingivitis. If treated early, you can stop the problem before the damage becomes irreversible.

If you end up developing gum disease, your bone and connective tissue will start to break down. This is due to detached gum tissue that creates "pockets" in your mouth. These pockets collect bacteria, which spreads and causes complications. Including, teeth loss.

Symptoms of gum disease

Signs you might have gum disease include swollen and red gums that bleed easily. Your gums may even pull away from your teeth. You could experience persistent bad breath. And your teeth might feel looser than usual.

Smile implications

With time and without treatment, gum disease can do irreparable harm to your smile. You may lose teeth and bone integrity. The longer you wait, the more money you'll have to spend to fix the problem. And even then, it might be too late. Gum disease can leave you with gaps and shifts that can change the shape of your face.

Long-term health complications

Gum disease can lead to serious health conditions. The bacteria can make its way into your bloodstream. Which can weaken your immune system and make you vulnerable to other infections. The inflammation alone can cause diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some cancers. It’s important to pay attention to the signs before gum disease impacts your health.

Treating gum disease

The best treatment for gum disease is prevention. Brush at least two times every day and floss once a day. Get twice yearly professional cleanings, too.

If gum disease has already developed, Dr. Juan Carrillo can provide intensive scaling and root planing. This non-surgical cleaning treats periodontal disease by removing harmful bacteria and plaque.

If you have symptoms of gum disease, get treatment as soon as possible. Don’t wait! Contact Dr. Juan Carrillo to save your teeth and your health. You can call our office at 804-201-9459 or schedule a consultation here.