It may surprise you to know that the majority of Americans either have or have had gum disease at some point in their lives. It’s one of the most common diseases and has actually been linked to heart disease in recent studies. There are a few different types of gum disease. “Gingivitis” is the more common form and can generally be reversed if you practice good oral hygiene. Periodontitis, however, is much harder to treat and can develop when gingivitis gets out of control. Your teeth can eventually come loose and require removal if the periodontitis gets too bad.
What Causes Gum Disease?
- Bacteria is the root of what causes gum disease, though the bacteria can be caused by a few different catalysts.
- Poor oral hygiene allows the bacteria to breed and cause plaque and tartar buildup. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an ADA approved mouthwash on a regular basis can help prevent gum disease. Your Annapolis dentist will be able to advise you on the best oral hygiene routine for you.
- Certain medications prevent you from producing enough saliva in your mouth. Saliva works to help remove harmful bacteria from your teeth and gums. If you feel like you have contracted gum disease, talk to your doctor and dentist about your medications and what you can do to solve the problem.
- Genetics play a role in almost everything – gum disease included. If your family has a history of gum disease, there’s a good chance that you could develop it as well. We advise you to be extra diligent in your oral hygiene routine if you know that gum disease runs in your family.
What are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
The main symptoms that will show up are:
- Bad breath
- Sensitive teeth and gums
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Swollen gums
You may have more symptoms show up than that, but those are the most common tip offs that you have developed either gingivitis or periodontitis. Treating gum disease on your own is not advisable. If you have the symptoms of gum disease, it’s important to see your Annapolis family dentist as soon as possible to avoid losing teeth or letting your gum disease progress any farther.
To schedule an appointment to talk to your dentist about gum disease treatments, please contact Annapolis Dental Care by calling (410) 267-0766 or visit AnnapolisDentalCare.com today! We look forward to getting to know your family and improving your oral health care!