The title of this article may seem quite brash, but according to statistics collected by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), 80% of the population of Wilmington and the rest of the United States, in fact, have gum disease! It's a shocking revelation and one that points directly at the fact that in spite of our advanced medical technology, we are still miles away from leading a truly healthy lifestyle.
What is gum disease? How do you know whether or not you have it and why does it pose such a serious health risk? In this article, some of Wilmington's most experienced and respected gum disease specialists will be providing us with the answers to questions we should all be asking about our oral health.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease happens when the amount of bacteria in your mouth is not controlled properly, usually through poor oral hygiene, a lack of professional dental care and habits like smoking and drug abuse. Over time, the gums become infected and this infection burrows deep down into the tissues between your gums and the roots of the teeth. Gum disease ultimately leads to the loss of your teeth if untreated, according to Wilmington Dentists.
What are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
Perhaps the biggest obstacle in the path of gum disease treatment is the fact that you can live with it for so long without actually realizing you have a problem! Gum disease doesn't typically initially present with any pain, so you can quite easily ignore your condition. Oftentimes, pain is the one symptom that patients will "listen to"... it's what compels Wilmington residents to seek treatment. In the beginning stages of the disease - when it's known as gingivitis - you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:
* Angry, inflamed gums
* Swollen gums
* Gums that bleed when you brush and floss them
* Mild discomfort when brushing
* Persistent bad breath
Left without treatment, gum disease can progress and cause the gingival sulci around the teeth to become infected, at which stage it becomes known as "periodontitis." Because a toothbrush cannot reach these internal spaces, this stage of the disease can necessitate surgical intervention by an experienced Dentist in Wilmington CA. Symptoms to look out for (in addition to those mentioned above) may include:
* A recession of the gums from the crowns of the teeth
* Tooth sensitivity
* Exposure of the tooth roots
* Discoloration of your teeth
* Oral sores and lesions
* Tooth decay
* Loose teeth
* A persistent bad taste in the mouth
* Tooth loss
Why is Gum Disease so Dangerous?
Aside from the fact that gum disease can totally wreck the quality of your smile, you have to consider that your mouth is your body's most important ingress. It's the facility through which you receive oxygen and nourishment. When this portal is diseased and infected, you leave the rest of your body's systems and organs vulnerable to disease and infection.
In fact, according to Wilmington's highly respected gum disease dentists, people with periodontitis are at a greater risk of developing a whole host of systemic diseases, including liver, heart, respiratory system and kidney disease. There's also stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis, Alzheimer's disease and rheumatoid arthritis to contend with.
Gum disease is a very dangerous condition with the potential to claim several years if not decades off your life expectancy. The good news is that it is totally preventable and it can be treated.
Gum Disease Prevention
Good oral hygiene, which includes daily flossing, and routine visits to your dentist and oral hygienist are crucial in preventing a disease that can ruin your self-esteem and quality of life. Also be sure to eat a balanced diet, avoid habits that are damaging to your healthy (such as smoking, drug abuse and alcoholism) and understand the connection between any chronic medications you may be on and your oral health. By looking after your teeth, you can enjoy the dual benefits of a beautiful, youthful smile and good general health.
Dr. Giri Palani is a
certified Wilmington Dentist who has been serving Palos Verdes CA and the surrounding communities, including Wilmington, for many years now. He adopts a holistic approach to providing patients with the dental care they need in order to keep their teeth and gums healthy and beautiful. Dr. Palani has received advanced training from some of the world's most respected and prestigious medical facilities
