Do You Believe Any of These Commonly Held Myths About Gum Disease?

Most people have heard of gum disease and know that it can be a serious issue. However, a lot of people hold certain beliefs about gum disease that simply aren’t true. At California Dental Group, we believe it’s important for our clients to know the truth. Read on to get information on some of the most commonly held myths we hear, and then reach out to us at (800) 407-0161 if you need to make an appointment.

Myth: Gum disease always comes with cavities

Too often, patients think that since they don’t have cavities, they don’t have gum disease. This isn’t necessarily true. Even a person who’s never had a cavity in their life could get gum disease. Gum disease typically has little to no symptoms when it’s in its early phase. The only way to know for sure is to get a dental exam and cleaning.

Myth: Getting gum disease means losing teeth

Sometimes we find that patients hear they have gum disease and immediately assume that they’re going to lose their teeth. This isn’t necessarily the case. When you’re diagnosed, we can go over a number of treatment options. Only those in the furthest stages of gum disease are at significant risk of losing their teeth. The sooner you get to us so we can diagnose you, the better!

Myth: It’s uncommon for a person to have gum disease

This is simply not true. The latest estimates say that about half of all American adults have some level of gum disease. The more serious type of gum disease is periodontitis, while the less severe – and more common – type if gingivitis. It’s what leaves your gums tender, red, and / or swollen.

Myth: It’s normal for gums to bleed sometimes

If your gums are inflamed, tender, or bleeding, then there is something wrong with them. If any of these symptoms appears when you brush your teeth or floss, then you have the early signs of gum disease. It doesn’t mean you have it but you should always let your doctor know if your gums are bleeding. This is never a good sign and should always be addressed.

Myth: It’s more important to brush than it is to floss

Everyone knows how important it is to brush. Whether they do it or not, they generally understand that ideally they should brush twice a day. This is not the case for flossing. People know they should but they don’t think it’s that important. Or they don’t realize that it should be done daily. The reality is that, when it comes to fighting gum disease, flossing is just as important as brushing. Food particles that hide between your teeth can quickly turn to plaque, which turns to tartar, which gives off gases that lead to gum disease. Flossing is the only way to get those stubborn pieces of food and other debris out from between your teeth.

If it’s been more than six months since your last visit to a dentist then we encourage you to contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 as soon as possible. We’ll provide a thorough examination to let you know both what you’re dealing with and the potential solutions.