Are you shocked to learn that more than half of adults in the United States who are at last 30 years old have gum disease? This is according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The good news is that there are preventative measures that can be taken, and, if it is discovered early, it can be treated. Keep reading to find out why it has become so common and what you can do about it.
The Basics of Gum Disease
To understand why so many people have gum disease, you must first understand what gum disease is. It is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth – otherwise known as the gums. It is very common and, when caught early, is very treatable. If it is not treated and is instead left to fester, it can cause bad breath, bleeding gums, pain, and even tooth loss.
The Main Cause of Gum Disease is Poor Oral Health Care
While there are many factors that go together to determine if a person is going to come down with gum disease, the most telling is how well they care for their teeth. Virtually everyone knows that brushing and flossing are important, but this does not mean that they do it daily. Brushing at least twice per day and flossing at least once is the bare minimum. If a person does not do at least that, then they are at significant risk of developing gum disease.
Skipping the Dentist Increases the Chance of Developing Gum Disease
When you visit your dentist for a cleaning and exam, we can clean your teeth to remove any plaque and tartar you cannot get with your brush. If you do not do this, then that tartar will continue to grow, which leads to both gum disease as well as tooth decay. Additionally, when you visit your dentist early, we can catch gum disease while it is still a minor issue and is much easier to treat.
Bad Habits and Poor Nutrition Contribute to Gum Disease Rates
If you smoke or chew tobacco, then you are not only risking all the health issues that you know come along with these habits, but you are also increasing your chance of developing gum disease. Poor diets, such as those high in sugar or carbs, can also increase plaque formation, which leads to gum disease.
If you suspect you have gum disease, or if it has been more than six months since you have visited the dentist, then we strongly suggest you visit California Dental Group. You can call us at 800-407-0161 to make an appointment.
