Everyone’s heard of the term “Gum Disease” but do you know what it really is? Gum Disease is a blanket term for the cycle of periodontal disease. It all starts off simply enough, plaque builds up and lets bacteria build up in your mouth, your gums start to get sensitive and start to bleed. If you make it to that step and you let it go untreated the problem can get much much worse to the point your teeth are falling out. It’s best to take preventative measures by going to your local dentist at least twice a year to get checked for pre-periodontal disease (pre-gum disease). So what really is periodontal disease?
A Few Signs Of Gum Disease To Look Out For
Not everyone knows exactly what “periodontal disease” is. Or, at least, you think you don’t. In short, periodontal disease attacks the gums and bone that support the teeth but you better know this as “gum disease.” Tartar builds up around the tooth and calcifies in less than three days. This tartar buildup creates pockets of inflammation and allows for bacterial buildup. When plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone. Did you know four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t even know it? Scary, right? Because the early stages of Periodontal Disease are often painless, it’s hard to discern when the disease has taken hold. Even if you have gum disease, you can find help with the dental care at one of our Marrero Dentist Offices.
Bleeding Gums
Do you notice pink in the sink after brushing or that your gums are bleeding when you floss your teeth? Bleeding gums is one of the very first signs of pre-periodontal disease. Although a little blood in the sink may be something easy to shrug off, this is an excellent time to contact your dentist for an examination. Catching gum disease early gives you the best chance of being able to reverse your condition.
Chronic Bad Breath
What about bad breath that won’t go away no matter what you do? This may be a sign of a deeper problem related to your dental health. Chronic bad breath is another symptom related to pre-periodontal disease and is caused by bacteria in the mouth forming up build up tartar and plaque. Fortunately, this symptom is easily reversible with a quick visit to your dentist.
Infected Gums & Tooth Loss
A buildup of bacteria under the soft tissues in your mouth can also cause gum disease. These red, swollen gums are common when you have pre-periodontal disease. Periodontal Disease can lead to teeth feeling loose in your mouth, bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone).
Not only is periodontal disease the number one reason for tooth loss, but research also suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk during pregnancy. Don’t wait for your gum disease to become a problem, call the professionals today!
Call Our Marrero Dentist Offices For Care You Can Count On!
If you have noticed any of these signs or symptoms, it’s time to visit your local dentist! Your best defense against gum disease is consistent visits to your dentist every six months. Visit our staff at Exceptional Dental to stay on top of your dental health.
Exceptional Dental currently has two locations in Marrero, one on Avenue G. and another on Ames Boulevard. That way, you’ll never be too far from exceptional dentistry..Give us a call at (504) 229-7990 or contact us online for any questions you may have. We are dedicated to helping you get the smile you deserve, so schedule your appointment today!
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