GUM DISEASE
Do your gums feel puffy or sore? Do they bleed when you brush or floss? Many people experience these symptoms without realizing that they may be signs of gum disease. Also called periodontal disease or periodontitis, gum disease affects approximately 40% of adults in the U.S.
Gum disease starts when plaque – a sticky film of bacteria – builds up around teeth and gums. If plaque isn’t removed regularly by brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar and calculus; this, in turn, causes the gums to become inflamed and irritated and leads to gingivitis. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and causes your gums to become red and swollen. Gums can also start bleeding while brushing and flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis turns into gum disease when the infection moves deeper into the gums and starts affecting the bone that supports your teeth. This can eventually lead to bone loss in your jaw, loose and wiggly teeth, and even loss of teeth in extreme cases.
There are certain factors that increase your risk of gum disease, including but not limited to smoking, vaping, using chewing tobacco or Zyn’s, diabetes, poor oral hygiene, and certain medications.
The good news is that gum disease is preventable and treatable when caught early. Brushing twice daily and flossing daily can make a huge difference. And regular dental check-ups at FourPoints are important because your dentist and dental hygienist can spot early signs of gingivitis and gum disease before you might notice a problem at home. If you are experiencing tooth pain, bleeding gums, or bad breath that won’t go away, schedule an appointment and let us help keep your smile healthy.
FourPoints Health offers dental services in Cedar City and Richfield, including cleanings, fillings, crowns, dentures, and extractions on a sliding-fee scale. To learn more, click here.