Gum disease is a pervasive health problem in Arizona and one that affects the vast majority of the population. It is caused by poor oral hygiene and a lack of professional dental care. You may think yourself immune to this disease because you brush your teeth twice per day, but there are several other factors at work that can put you at risk of developing this terrible oral affliction.
Hormonal fluctuations (present during menopause and pregnancy), gender (men being more at risk), certain illnesses, your diet and habits such as excessive drinking and tobacco-use can all influence your vulnerability to gum disease. What’s more important than prompt treatment is prevention, but if you suspect that you may have this disease or have already been diagnose with it, you can receive cutting-edge treatment at Gasser Dental. It’s our aim to help you get the very most out of your natural dentition and keeping your gums healthy is a fundamental part of this.
How Do I Know If I Have Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or its precursor gingivitis, does not typically cause much pain in the mouth, which is why it can go ignored and undiagnosed for months, if not years. Having said this, there are some important and obvious signs and symptoms you should be on the look out for. Should you ever notice one or more of the following, you should give us a call immediately to arrange prompt professional attention:
- Swollen and inflamed gums, giving you a “gummy” smile
- Chronic bad breath,
- Tooth discoloration and a yellowing or even brown mottling of the dental enamel,
- Gums that bleed when brushed or flossed,
- A persistent bad taste in your mouth,
- Sores and lesions in your mouth,
- Gums that have receded from the crowns of your teeth, making your smile look toothy or “horsey,”
- Teeth that feel loose or uncomfortable when you eat,
- Tooth loss.
Gum Disease Treatment And Prevention
Should you be diagnosed with gum disease, Dr. Gasser will design you a treatment schedule to eliminate infection as quickly as possible. This typically involves a number of sessions during which your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and as much bacterial infection eliminated from beneath your gum line as possible. You may also be prescribed a course of antibiotics to help your body fight infection. Should any of your teeth require restoration or even extraction and replacement, your options for treatment will be discussed with you in detail.
Remember, the sooner you’re treated for gum disease, the quicker and fuller your recovery and the lesser your risk of tooth loss will be. Also, prevention is better than cure! While gum disease is frightfully common amongst Arizona residents, it’s also very easy to prevent. By brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice per day, every day, and by coming for routine scheduled check-ups and professional cleanings, you can prevent this disease from gaining a foothold in your mouth.
Prevent Gum Disease:
- Brush your teeth for two minutes at a time, at least twice per day,
- Floss every single day,
- Make use of anti-bacterial mouth rinses,
- See your dentist and oral hygienist twice per year,
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet,
- Avoid sugary, carbonated beverages,
- Limit alcohol consumption,
- Quit smoking!
Contact Us!
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with an experienced restorative dentist in Sun City, don’t hesitate to contact us at 623-972-8217. Alternatively, fill out our Contact Form and we’ll get back to you promptly.