Serving patients of Erwin, Jonesborough, and Greeneville TN
It is estimated that nearly 37 million people have gum disease, an active bacterial infection of the gums. For most people, if their doctor were to tell them that they had an infection in their body, they’d take it pretty seriously. But for some reason, many people are unaware or ignore the fact that they live with an active infection in their mouths. If ignored, gum disease can cause the jawbone to shrink away until there is nothing left to hold your teeth.
We have about 500 different types of oral bacteria. Some bacteria are good for us, while others are the kind we constantly battle to prevent dental diseases. Adapting to a healthy lifestyle and committing to a daily oral care regimen combats cavities and gum disease and allows you to live a healthier life – both in terms of your oral health and body. On the flip side, you could be fueling the harmful oral bacteria without even realizing it.
Untreated gum disease has been linked to other health-related diseases such as a greater risk of cardiovascular events, diabetes, and dementia, according to research. It may be hard to believe, but something as simple as brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and following through with twice-yearly dental cleanings and checkups could actually help you live a longer, healthier life!
How can I tell if I have gum disease?
Gum disease starts as gingivitis, which is reversible. If you experience gums that are tender, red, inflamed, and bleed easily, you likely have gingivitis. Start taking better care of your oral health every day, and you can reverse this condition. If ignored, however, gingivitis advances to periodontitis, which is when calculus buildup forms under the gumline and erodes the jawbone. Calculus is a by-product of the foods we eat and the bacteria in our mouths. Everyone gets it, but it takes professional dental cleanings to remove it. If you aren’t sure whether you have gum disease, go to the dentist to find out. You don’t have to feel embarrassed or ashamed. Many people battle gum disease, and with your dentist’s help, it can be stopped so that you can preserve your oral health.
How is gum disease treated?
The first line of defense when managing gum disease is that the patient must commit to at-home oral hygiene such as brushing and flossing daily. It would help to adapt to a healthy diet filled with fruits and veggies and low in sugar (especially sugary beverages like sodas and sports drinks). Plus, the dentist will recommend professional dental cleanings. You may also benefit from laser gum therapy, a procedure that easily removes diseased gum tissue and zaps oral bacteria to prevent gum disease from coming back. The best way to know which treatment is right for you is to set an appointment with a family dentist in Greeneville.
Family Dentist in Greeneville, Erwin, and Jonesborough TN
If you’d like to learn more about gum disease or schedule a checkup to see which treatments are right for you, call Tusculum Dental Care at (423) 639-7575.