Gum Disease Myths Dispelled by Your Encinitas Periodontist

Dr. Ann Kania is a board-certified periodontist with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating gum disease. Advanced gum disease manifests as a dangerous oral health condition and is the number one reason for tooth loss in adulthood. Our team would like to dispel some commonly-held misconceptions about gum health and periodontal disease.

Myth #1

Antibiotics cure gum disease.

While antibiotics are often used to help reduce the presence of infection, these medications do not cure gum disease. In fact, once gum disease advances, the condition is not reversible; it is only treatable. Additionally, if antibiotic medication is overused, bacteria in your body may build resistance to the medication.

Myth #2

Gum disease is only caused by poor oral hygiene.

Although poor oral hygiene contributes to gum disease, some patients develop gum disease because of genetic predispositions, certain medications, or hormonal changes. For example, pregnant women are susceptible to periodontal disease because of intense hormonal fluctuations.

Myth # 3

Losing teeth is just a part of the aging process.

Before modern dental and oral care, many people in the United States associated aging with losing teeth. Despite this misconception, gum disease is responsible for most adult tooth loss. Gum disease erodes the bond between the gum tissue and the tooth. Over time, the teeth loosen and fall out. With proper oral hygiene and routine checkups by oral health professionals, your teeth can last a lifetime.

If you are concerned about developing gum disease or believe you may have it, Dr. Kania can help. She utilizes state-of-the-art technology to diagnose and address gum disease. To schedule an appointment at our Encinitas periodontist office, contact us at (760) 642-0711. We serve patients from Carlsbad, Oceanside, San Marcos, Del Mar, La Costa, Rancho Santa Fe, and the neighboring San Diego communities.