What Is Gum Disease?

According to the CDC, more than 45% of adults aged 30 years and older suffer from some form of gum disease. Also known as gingivitis, this condition affects your gingiva, or the soft tissue surrounding your teeth.

Our experienced dentists at Stone Dental Group – SE Chicago Dentistry in Chicago, Illinois, can identify early signs of gum disease and provide appropriate treatment to ensure your long-term dental health.

What Are the Signs of Gum Disease?

Certain changes in your body may indicate you are suffering from gum disease. These include tender, red, or swollen gums that bleed while you floss or brush. You may also experience malocclusion or bite changes or have loose teeth.

Other symptoms include pain or sensitivity while chewing or halitosis (bad breath) that doesn’t improve with regular brushing.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Knowing the causes of gum disease may help you prevent it. Below are the most common causes you should be aware of:

• Poor Oral Hygiene

Millions of oral bacteria live inside your mouth. In the absence of daily oral hygiene practices, plaque forms on your teeth and tongue, allowing the bacteria to flourish. If plaque is not cleaned, it becomes tartar and infects the gums.

Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily are the best ways to prevent gum disease.

• Smoking

According to studies, smokers have a higher risk of gum disease. Smoking aggravates bacterial plaque production, which directly leads to gum problems. It also reduces the oxygen levels in the bloodstream which results in the progress of gum disease.

• Nutritional Deficiencies

Deficiencies of specific nutrients increase your risk of gum disease. Studies have revealed that people with low levels of vitamin B12 are more likely to suffer from gum problems than those with sufficient levels of this vitamin. The deficiency of vitamins A, C, D, and calcium also leads to gum issues.

How Can Early Diagnosis Help?

Leaving gum disease untreated allows it to progress further. This can lead to severe oral problems and even increase the risk of other diseases.

Gum disease can be easily managed through standard dental procedures and a management plan. This will require the assistance of a dentist who understands your condition.

Gum disease is completely preventable with a proper dental routine and regular visits to your dentist. For a comprehensive screening, call Stone Dental Group – SE Chicago Dentistry at (773) 880-5080 or visit our dental clinic at 2845 N Sheridan Rd #914, Chicago, IL 60657.