Periodontal Disease is a disease that attacks the tissues that support your teeth. In particular, it is the area around your teeth making up your gums and bones. Periodontal Disease comes from plaque that builds up in your mouth, which is eventually turned into tartar if not addressed. When tartar builds up, more bacteria and toxins destroy the bones and gums around the teeth, opening them up to more disease. Red, swollen, and bleeding gums are often characterized as Periodontal Disease, and are a direct result of the plaque, tartar, toxins, and bacteria built up on the roots and under the gums. What is truly astounding is that four out of five people with Periodontal Disease do not even know they have it.
What Can I Do to Stop or Reduce the Chances of Periodontal Disease?
The best thing you can do is to maintain good oral hygiene. This involves brushing and flossing. By keeping the area around the base of your teeth free from plague and tartar, you reduce the chances of Periodontal Disease occurring. In addition, a balanced diet, not smoking, as well as periodic checkups with a dentist can reduce the chances of Periodontal Disease happening to you.
What are some Signs That I May Have Periodontal Disease?
One of the easiest signs to recognize is bleeding gums. In general, your gums should never bleed, even when vigorously brushing or using dental floss. In addition, loose teeth, or new spacing between teeth, point towards a loss of bone and gum attachment around your teeth. There is also persistent bad breath, as well as tenderness and discomfort. Finally, if you have pus around the teeth and gums, the Periodontal Disease has already reached a higher level of infection.
Having Periodontal Disease does not mean your teeth will all fall out. Rather, it means that you should be very careful when it comes to your oral hygiene, and work towards a more stable routine when it comes to care. With the right care, you can help reduce the damage and slow down the effects of Periodontal Disease. The right care consists of treatment and maintenance by your dental team at Finger Lakes Family Dental as well as the proper home care routine by you. Our team will guide you in establishing a routine in order to help you keep your teeth as long as possible.
Protect your gums from disease! For more information about periodontal disease treatments and other services, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us by calling (607) 936-6394. You may also send us a message by visiting our Contact page and filling out the accompanying form.
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