Gum Disease — Its Signs, Symptoms and Causes
If you’ve paid attention to the news lately, you may have read a number of articles discussing the possible links between gum disease and other health risks like high blood pressure, and even Alzheimer’s disease. Gum disease is nothing to ignore, because if left unchecked it can lead to tooth loss; but when you factor in the other serious health issues it might be connected to, it becomes even more important to seek out gum disease treatment in Orlando if you think you might be suffering from it. Here, we’ll look at the signs and symptoms of gum disease, and how we can help.
Seeing Red
Gum disease in one form or another affects many millions of Americans, both young and old, and is often the result of poor oral hygiene. If teeth are neglected long enough, the gums that surround them become red and swollen, a condition called gingivitis. Gingivitis is one of the first signs of gum disease, but the good news is that regular brushing and flossing goes a long way toward avoiding and even reversing it. Red and swollen gums can also lead to bleeding gums, another sign of gum disease. While it’s not unusual for gums to bleed slightly during brushing every once in a while, it should not be the norm. Gums that bleed heavily and regularly during brushing are not healthy, and are likely suffering from periodontal disease, a more technical name for gum disease. Whatever name you use, it should not be dismissed, because it means your teeth and gums need help.
Gum Disease Treatment in Orlando Can Help
Gingivitis and gum disease can be the result of poor oral hygiene, but how are they connected? Well, brushing and flossing your teeth do more than make your teeth feel clean; they help to remove bacteria that, if allowed to remain long enough, cause a sticky substance called plaque to build up on your teeth, which in turn causes gingivitis. When gingivitis goes unchecked, it almost always worsens over time. Bleeding gums become receding gums that expose the roots of your teeth, making them susceptible to infection, loosening and, ultimately, loss. That’s why it’s very important to seek out gum disease treatment in Orlando if you think you might need it. Our experts can diagnose and treat gum disease at any stage and have you feeling good about your teeth and smiling again.
Who is Susceptible?
Most of us need to be mindful of gum disease, but some more than others. Some people are genetically predisposed to it, while others who suffer from certain diseases, like cancer or diabetes, are more at risk. Smoking can also increase your chances of gum disease (just another really good reason to quit!). By maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, and consistent semi-annual visits to your oral hygienist, you can reduce the chances of needing gum disease treatment in Orlando, so be sure to seek out professional help the minute you think you might need it.
Don’t let the effects of gum disease keep you from smiling. Reach out to us today for more information about treatment options.
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