It’s estimated by the CDC that 47% of people over age 30 have gum disease to some degree. The earliest stage of gum disease, is known as gingivitis. Initial symptoms include: inflamed gums that might also bleed easily when you brush and floss. Many people with gingivitis also struggle with chronic bad breath.
If gingivitis is not addressed in a timely manner it can develop into the more dangerous form of gum disease, known as periodontitis. This infection deep in the gums can cause them to recede from the base of your teeth creating pockets of infected tissues. In time this can compromise the roots of your teeth and even cause a loss of bone material in your jaw.
Prevention, through an effective oral hygiene routine is the best defense against gingivitis. This has many facets. It starts by brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft bristled toothbrush and abrasive toothpaste followed by flossing between your teeth and along the gum line. If you don’t remove food particles and plaque from these areas, it can quickly harden into tartar at the gum line, which is the leading cause of gum disease.
It is very difficult for you to remove tartar from your gum line with the tools and products available to you at home. It usually requires the techniques and training of the dental professionals at your regular dental checkup and cleaning.
If you are concerned that you might be developing gum disease or you are overdue for your regular dental cleaning, please call us at 505.898.8063 to schedule an appointment.