You are right to be concerned about gum disease. It is such a prevalent problem that the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates nearly half of all adults over the age of 30 have some level of gum disease present.
One of the most common symptoms of gum disease is bleeding or swollen gums when you brush and floss. Other signs to look for are:
- Your gums are tender when touched
- Your teeth feel loose
- You have persistent bad breath, even after you brush
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that attacks the gums and tissue that hold your teeth in place. Without proper oral hygiene and regular professional dental cleanings, bacteria have a chance to develop and linger in pockets that surround your teeth. The gums gradually become infected, destroying healthy gum tissue and leading to decay and even possible tooth loss.
At Elgin Family Dental, we have effective solutions for eliminating gum disease or minimizing its effects on your oral health. But the best way to avoid ever developing gum disease in the first place is diligent oral hygiene at home and regular visits to our office for preventive exams and cleanings.
If you suspect that you may have gum disease, please call us to arrange an appointment for a dental cleaning. Preventing gum disease is not difficult, and it can save you a lot of costly treatments in the future.