Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the most common oral afflictions in the world. The sad reality is that this destructive disease is entirely preventable. Studies show that one of the best methods of preventing the development of periodontal disease is to know the facts beforehand.
How much do we really know about this condition anyway? Many people think the conversation begins and ends with puffy bleeding gums. Here are some of six secrets about gum disease that might actually surprise you.
Brushing Alone Doesn’t Prevent Gum Disease
If your oral hygiene regimen consists solely of the occasional brushing, you’re at serious risk of developing gum disease. It’s not simply a question of whether you brush or not – you need to brush correctly and make sure you’re flossing teeth on a nightly basis.
Hold your brush at a 45 degree angle as you brush, moving it in short circular motion. You’ll want to target your gums as well, it’s just as important to brush them as it is your actual teeth. Gum disease can develop over time from areas of your mouth missed from poor brushing habits.
Gum Disease Causes Bad Breath
Are you constantly finding yourself with stinky breath? This might actually be a sign that gum disease has developed within your mouth. Looks like you’re overdue for a date with the dentist!
In order to cure bad breath once and for all you’ll need to get to the core issue – your ailing gums. When you start reversing the effects of periodontal disease, it won’t take long for you to notice an improvement to your breath – that is to say you won’t notice your breath anymore.
Natural Teeth Lost to Gum Disease Are Lost Forever
This might sound harsh, but it’s the truth – if you lose a tooth to decay, you lose the tooth forever. Take note, there’s nothing more dependable or sturdier than your natural tooth!
Replacement teeth, or dental implants, are costly and require an intensive procedure. If a stronger bite isn’t enough for you to ward off gum disease, the expense to your wallet just might be.
A Little Blood on the Gums? No Biggie
If you haven’t flossed your teeth for an extended period of time, it’s normal to see a little spotting in your gums. Even if this spotting subsides within 1-2 days, this could be an early sign of gum disease. Never disregard bleeding in your mouth as no big deal! Schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately.
Heart Disease is Linked to Periodontal Disease
Gum disease is not simply an issue that concerns your teeth – research shows periodontal disease has a strong link to the development of heart disease. It’s one thing to lose your teeth, it’s a much graver situation when the matter concerns your heart!