Gum Disease: Understanding the Risks and Prevention

Gum disease impacts billions of people around the world but is, in many cases, preventable. The key is understanding the risks and what steps you must take to prevent gum disease. With effective oral hygiene at home and regular teeth cleaning by the family dentist in Owensboro, KY, gum disease doesn’t have to be in your future.

Understanding Gum Disease

Every person’s mouth is full of bacteria that produce a sticky film called plaque. You remove this film when you brush and floss each day.

When plaque remains, it hardens into tartar or calculus. That hard substance irritates your gums, causing them to become inflamed, a condition known as gingivitis. It is the earliest form of gum disease.

Untreated gingivitis transitions into full-blown periodontitis, the more dangerous problem. Periodontitis can damage the gum’s soft tissue and eat away at the bone that holds teeth in place.

Symptoms and Risk Factors for Gum Disease

Signs of gum disease include:

• Swollen, sore gums
• Bleeding gums
• Receding gum lines
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose teeth

There is more to gum disease than just poor oral hygiene, though. There are risk factors that make it more likely, such as:

• Family history
• Smoking
• Age
• Diseases such as diabetes
• Medications
• Stress

Your best chance of avoiding gum disease is to work with your dentist in Owensboro, KY, to develop a prevention strategy.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing gum disease requires a combination of effective oral hygiene and regular dental care. It starts with good brushing and flossing at home, which removes plaque before it becomes tartar.

Also, consider your risk factors. If you smoke, for example, now is the time to stop. Make sure to manage any underlying conditions like diabetes to reduce your chances of gum disease.

Finally, see your family dentist in Owensboro, KY, every six months for a professional cleaning. This will remove any plaque you miss with your daily brushing and eliminate tartar buildup. Call and make your appointment now.