Any good dentist will make efforts to see that you stay free of periodontal or gum disease. Even so, many people end up developing this oral disease. An estimated 42.7 percent of the adult population aged 30 and above suffers from periodontal disease in the USA, as the CDC says. Also, periodontal disease infection increases with age, with 70.1 percent of adult Americans aged 65 years and above having the disease. There are many questions patients ask about periodontal disease, but here are the common ones:
What is Periodontal Disease?
You probably have seen the wall posters mounted in the dentist’s office talking about periodontal disease, but you aren’t sure that it is. Well, periodontal disease is a gum tissue infection contributed to by mouth bacteria. It occurs when bacteria attach to teeth, accumulating over time to cause inflammation. If not treated, the infection can cost you your teeth and bring other health concerns.
How do I Know I Have Periodontal Disease?
You will notice the gums turning red, becoming swollen and tender, and bleeding easily while doing your daily brushing and flossing. There may be gum pockets or abscesses or pus around the teeth. Bad breath is also experienced by the patients. Moreover, drainage from the gum pockets may have a foul taste.
Over time, the gums recede, leaving more of your teeth and the roots exposed. Severe cases can damage the tooth or periodontal ligaments, making the teeth loosen and fall out. Visit a dentist ASAP if you suspect gum disease.
Can Periodontal Disease Contribute to Other Diseases?
Your oral health is tied to your general health. People with gum disease have higher odds of developing other diseases and conditions like diabetes, heart infection, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Talk to our periodontists to discover more about periodontal disease and how to avoid and stop it. Come visit us if you have the disease so that we treat you before it progresses.
