It’s more than an issue with your gums; periodontal disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the United States. The rampant inflammation associated with the condition is also a recognized risk factor for other chronic inflammatory conditions. The good news is that gum disease is highly preventable, and equally as controllable if it’s allowed to develop. All you need is a good hygiene routine at home and a diligent schedule of professional care at Dr. Young’s office to help ensure your gums and teeth remain healthy and disease-free.
What to Watch For
Unlike the development of a cavity, the onset of gum disease doesn’t usually make your teeth hurt. It does, however, produce warning signs that should prompt you to take action if you notice them. Gingivitis, the beginning stage of gum disease, describes a bacterial infection resulting from excessive plaque buildup. The chronic presence of bacteria can lead to redness, swelling, and occasional bleeding.
What to Do
Effectively controlling the bacteria in your mouth, especially those responsible for gum disease, requires you to brush and floss your teeth at least twice every day. If you notice pink in your saliva when you brush, and your toothpaste is white, blue, green or any other color than red or pink, then trouble may be brewing even if you don’t feel any discomfort. You can help uncover gum disease’s presence before your gums start bleeding by visiting our Lafayette dentist’s office at least once every six months for a dental checkup and cleaning.
What Could Happen
Adequate gum disease prevention can be as simple as good hygiene and routine checkups, but if gingivitis develops, then you have a limited time to reverse the infection before it becomes full-blown gum disease. In its advanced stages, gum disease destroys the periodontal tissues and jawbone that support your teeth. If left unchecked, your bleeding oral tissues can allow inflammatory oral bacteria into your bloodstream, exacerbating your risks for a number of chronic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory illnesses.
About Michael J. Young, DDS:
To request more information about gum disease and how to protect your smile from it, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Young, contact our Lafayette dentist office at 337-237-6453. We serve families living in Breaux Bridge, Broussard, Scott, Youngsville, and surrounding communities. Dr. Young also invites you to find us on Facebook, where you’ll find news, tips, and valuable resources.