Periodontal disease, also called periodontitis or gum disease, is the infection of the gums that targets the soft tissues. About 47.2% of adults 30 years old and above have some form of periodontal disease. If neglected, it can damage the bone that supports the teeth and possibly lead to tooth loss. However, the condition can be easily prevented by following the advice of your dentist and practicing good oral hygiene. 

What Are the Causes & Risk Factors?

Periodontal disease occurs mainly from poor oral hygiene. You’ll need to brush and floss your teeth daily to remove tartar-forming plaque that erodes the teeth and gumline. Using mouthwash can also keep the mouth germ-free.

Aside from poor oral hygiene, other risk factors for gum disease may include hormonal changes and aging. For instance, an increase of estrogen and progesterone hormones in the body can make the gums sensitive, and thus, more susceptible to infection.

As we age, our gumline naturally recedes, making it more disease-prone. This problem could also be exacerbated by years of brushing the gums too hard.

What Are the Symptoms?

Periodontal disease symptoms include bad breath and gums that are puffy, swollen, and bright red or purple. If you have periodontitis, you may also notice that your gums bleed easily. If you notice blood after brushing or flossing your teeth, mention it to your doctor.  

More advanced symptoms include pain when chewing, new spaces between teeth, and gums receding or pulling away from the teeth.

How to Prevent Periodontal Disease

Here are a few tips to prevent periodontitis:

Brush Daily 

Brush your teeth at least two times a day, preferably after every meal. Keep in mind, however, that brushing your teeth too soon after eating acidic foods can wear away tooth enamel. It’s best to wait about 30 minutes to allow your teeth to harden up again before brushing. Floss at least once a day. 

Visit the Dentist 

Get a dental checkup at least twice a year. Your dentist will clean your teeth to remove tartar and prevent plaque buildup. They can also assess whether you currently have dental issues and make recommendations on how to address them.

Stop Smoking 

Aside from causing other health issues like lung cancer and emphysema, smoking reduces the oxygen in your bloodstream, making it harder for your gums to fight off an infection. As such, smokers develop periodontal disease at higher rates than non-smokers.

 

Whenever residents of Philmont, NY, and the surrounding area needs a dentist, they turn to Philmont Family Dentistry. This local practice has been serving the community since 1975, giving exceptional patient care in general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, pediatric dentistry, and other related services. Whether you need teeth whitening or root canals, you can count on them to provide excellent service. Call (518) 672-4077 to schedule an appointment or visit the website to learn more about their dental team.