People are often surprised to hear how common periodontal disease can be. In fact, Centers for Disease Control studies show about half of adults over the age of 30 suffer from some form of the disease. But what causes gum disease? We hope that by better understanding the factors behind the disease, as well as the early warning signs, you can take steps to protect your oral health and address the problem early on!
Try Our Quiz on the Causes of Gum Disease
- True or False: Inflammation can lead to periodontal disease.
- True or False: Soreness and bleeding could be a warning sign.
- True or False: Early treatment can reverse the issue.
- True or False: Without treatment, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss.
Answer Key
- True. When our gums become inflamed, they can begin to pull away from the teeth, leading to deep pockets at the gum line. Once bacteria enter these pockets, the onset of periodontal disease can begin. A number of factors can lead to inflammation, including poor oral hygiene, medication, certain chronic illness, family history, or smoking.
- True. Patients may notice their gums appear more red than usual, r that they feel sore. Bleeding when you brush and floss can also be a sign that you require treatment. Don’t ignore these warning signs, schedule a visit with your dentist right away.
- True. In the gingivitis stage, we can actually reverse the problem completely. Once gum disease forms, there is no cure. However, routine treatment can prevent the disease from growing more severe and threatening the stability of your teeth.
- True. Periodontitis forms when gum disease remains untreated, leading to a greater risk of tooth loss as the connective tissues between the teeth and gums dissolve. If you have any questions about avoiding gum problems, then please contact our office today.
Do You Have Questions About Gum Disease?
We have a full array of comprehensive periodontal treatments to help you maintain a healthy smile. For more information, talk to your Encinitas and San Diego, CA periodontist. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kania, contact her office today at (760) 642-0711.
