By answering the quiz below and tallying up the points you score, you can determine whether you are at a grave risk of early, moderate or severe gum disease. Gum disease is a prevalent problem in the United States in spite of all the high tech gadgetry we have to prevent and combat the full spectrum of oral illnesses. Most people suffering from this condition have no idea they have it and this comes down to (1) the irregularity with which they visit their dentist and (2) the fact that gum disease doesn’t tend to cause much pain! With the help of qualified and experienced Stratford dental implants specialists, we put together the following quiz to help you determine whether you might be one of the 80% of Americans who have gum disease! Take the Quiz! Answer the following simple questions and then tally up the points you scored from all your “yes” answers. You’ll find your assessment below. Question 1: Take a look at your gums in the mirror. They should be a healthy pink in color. Do they look swollen or red? (Yes = 1 point)

Question 2: Has it been more than a year since you last had your teeth professionally cleaned? (Yes = 1 point) Question 3: Do your gums ever bleed when you floss or brush them? (Yes = 1 point) Question 4: Do you chew or smoke tobacco, whether it’s cigarettes, cigars or pipe? (Yes = 1 point) Question 5: Are you older than 40? (Yes = 1 point)

Question 6: Have you ever had one or more of your natural teeth removed that wasn’t a wisdom tooth? (Yes = 1 point) Question 7: Do your teeth look like they’ve become longer over time? In other words, have your gums receded exposing the roots underneath? (Yes = 2 points) Question 8: Are you aware of a constant bad taste in your mouth and chronic bad breath, even after you’ve brushed your teeth? You may have to ask the honest opinion of someone you feel comfortable with. (Yes = 2 points) Question 9: Have you noticed a change in the fit and feel of your bite? Have any of your teeth noticeably shifted? (Yes = 2 points) Question 10: Have any gaps or open spaces developed between your teeth in recent years? (Yes = 2 points)

Question 11: Do your teeth feel loose and unstable? (Yes = 3 points) Question 12: Has your oral hygienist or dentist made a point of recommending that you come for more frequent professional cleanings? More than twice per year? (yes = 3 points) Question 13: Has your oral hygienist or dentist told you that the natural pockets between your teeth and gums are “deep”? (Yes = 3 points) Your Score: 1 – 3 Points: “You could be in the early stages of gum disease,” say Stratford dental implants specialists. “If this is the case, your family dentist should be able to provide you with the treatment you need to improve your oral health. You should also increase your home oral hygiene efforts to help eliminate the bacteria irritating and infecting your gums.” 4 – 10 Points: “You are likely suffering from moderate gum disease,” say Stratford dental implants specialists. “You should definitely book yourself an appointment with a periodontist – a gum specialist - as you may require surgery to get your oral health back on track. 10 Points or More: “You are most definitely in trouble – severe gum disease. Don’t waste any time in seeking treatment from a gum specialist or you’ll end up completely toothless. You won’t only be looking at complete oral rehabilitation with All On Four dental implants; you could be at a high risk of developing a suite of potentially fatal diseases and ailments, such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and diabetes.

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