Most people know about cavities, but what about gum disease? Both of these issues can affect your oral health, but people often overlook gum problems. There are varying levels of severity when it comes to this condition. Even minor bouts with it can cause pain and discomfort. If you do not treat it, you could suffer severe health effects. You should know how to identify the symptoms of this disease and what leads to it.
Like tooth decay, gum conditions can start out small. Over time, however, it is usually clear that there are oral health concerns. Diseased gums will usually bleed during brushing. Sometimes, the gums may bleed more frequently. The gums may also become inflamed and be tender to the touch. These are signs that the person has gingivitis, a milder form of the disease.
At more serious stages, periodontitis occurs. Symptoms may include receding gums and infections in the mouth. The infection can spread from there throughout the body. Cardiovascular problems can link to gum disease.
Occasional brushing (or never brushing at all) will likely lead to gum disease. Brushing with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride-based toothpaste removes food particles from the teeth and at the gumline. Doing this will prevent bacteria from building up and causing plaque and tartar. Brushing should occur at least twice a day. Inattention to these details will increase the individual’s chances of developing gingivitis and subsequently periodontitis.
Flossing is just as important in the fight against gum disease. Flossing can dislodge particles of food from places that brushing may miss, such as in between hard-to-reach teeth. People of all ages should floss daily, preferably after eating or at the end of the day. Ignoring this habit will cause gums to swell and become tender. Bacteria will form and start to pull the gums away from the teeth.
Going to the dentist’s office may not be the most exciting thing, but it is vital. A semiannual dental checkup allows the dentist to clean the patient’s teeth and examine the individual for emerging problems. A patient may not recognize gum disease, but a dentist can spot this concern and start a treatment plan. People who rarely, if ever, go to the dentist may never get the professional care they need to combat this issue. Someone with gum problems may need to visit the dentist more often, as much as every two months.
You do not want to contend with the effects of gum disease. The consequences could be severe for your oral health and oral wellness. Poor oral hygiene is a major culprit of this condition. If you stay on top of brushing and flossing, and if you visit the dentist, you can maintain healthy gums. Talk to your dentist today if you have concerns about how your gums look and feel.
Request an appointment here: https://www.drtimhubbs.com or call Vineyard Hills Dental Care at (925) 233-1143 for an appointment in our Livermore office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Livermore, CA.
Gum disease is a common oral health issue that dentists treat. You may focus more on cavity prevention, but gum issues can be just as critical to your wellness. Putting off treatment can cause more serious issues. You should first recognize the signs and symptoms of this condition and then seek your dentist’s help right…
Gum disease is one of the most common dental diseases in the modern world. According to CDC, more than 47 percent of American adults have gum disease. Gum disease is caused by bacteria growing below the gum line. This results in the gums being pulled away from the root of the teeth. If left untreated,…
If you have unusual spots in your mouth, your mind may immediately jump to oral cancer. Leukoplakia is a disease caused by surplus cell growth, resulting in the appearance of patches or lesions in the oral cavity, usually on the gums and cheeks. Although their appearance can vary, the sores are typically white or gray…
Preventive dentistry deals with dental procedures to prevent dental issues, and it is critical for anybody who wants to keep their natural teeth for the rest of their life. Dentists used to spend most of their time treating dental issues rather than preventing them.Due to people's overly busy schedules, it is easy to put off…
Dental lumineers are a popular choice for people who want to enhance their smile and cover up any unsightly dental issues, such as chipped teeth or discoloration. Veneers are typically considered the go-to option for such issues; however, they provide a significant amount of coverage that not every patient requires. For less severe dental problems…
Are you searching for a "dentist near me"? Read on to learn more about choosing a dental health professional. If you are in a new location or just need to find a new "dentist near me," you will probably need to explore a couple of options. Finding a good dentist requires you to do your…