The Dangers of Gum Disease

While most Americans are aware of gum (periodontal) disease, very few are aware of how serious an impact it can have on their health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 48% of Americans over the age of 30 have some degree of gum disease. In addition, recent studies have linked it to a number of other health issues including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, respiratory diseases and cancer. The results of these new findings are beginning to elevate gum disease as a public health concern.

What is gum disease? Gum disease is an infection of the gums and surrounding tissues that hold teeth in place. There are two forms of gum disease: gingivitis, a mild form that is reversible with good oral hygiene, and periodontitis, a more severe form that damages the soft tissues and bone that support teeth. In its early stages, gum disease is usually painless and many people are not aware that they have it, while in more advanced cases, gum disease can cause sore gums and pain when chewing. Symptoms can include:

Red, swollen, inflamed or bleeding gums

Bad breath

Abscesses or ulcers

Rotting or loosening teeth

Receding gums and loss of supportive bone.

What causes gum disease?

Bacteria in the mouth, along with mucus and other particles, form a sticky, colorless film known as plaque to grow on teeth. When plaque is not removed by regular brushing and flossing, it can harden to form tartar, which can then only be removed by a dental professional. The longer plaque and tartar remain on the teeth the more harm they cause.

Eventually the bacteria in plaque and tartar can cause inflammation of the gums known as gingivitis. While gingivitis can be reversed through regular brushing, flossing and professional cleanings if left untreated it can lead to periodontitis. Periodontitis causes the gums to pull away from the teeth to form pockets, due to the chronic infection around the teeth. The body’s immune system, in attempting to fight these pockets of infection, can break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated this process can destroy the bones, gums and tissues that support the teeth, causing them to become loose or even fall out.

How to prevent gum disease? Dental professionals recommend the following steps to help prevent gum disease:

Brush - Brushing your teeth and tongue thoroughly at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste can greatly reduce or eliminate the buildup of plaque.

Floss - Flossing at least once a day will help to remove debris from between teeth that brushing alone might miss. If you are unable to floss, consider using a waterpik instead.

Mouthwash - Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash, such as Listerine, or a fluoride or anti-plaque mouthwash reduces the bacteria in your mouth, which can lead to plaque.

Visit your dentist - Visiting your dentist on a regular basis is one of the best ways to make sure that your teeth and gums stay healthy.

The team at Rocky Mountain Dental Partners believes a great smile is priceless and everyone deserves the look and feel that a great smile can bring. With locations in Aurora, Centennial, and Cherry Creek Rocky Mountain Dental Partners are available to answer your questions about gum disease and help you achieve the smile you always wanted. For more information on Rocky Mountain Dental Partners, please call 720-238-2977 or visit http://www.dentistsindenver.com.