Listly by monica-quinn-ny
Myths About Gum Disease
Gum disease is a condition that occurs when the gums become inflamed. The most common symptoms of gum disease are bad breath, bleeding gums, and toothache. The point is that many people don't know that they have gum disease and try to treat it with home remedies and painkillers. But you should know that only a dentist can diagnose and treat your condition properly. In this article, we have gathered six debunked myths about gum disease you shouldn't believe in.
Indeed, people who smoke and older people are more prone to gum disease. But you should know that there are a lot of factors that can contribute to the development of this condition. For example, children and adults who don't maintain proper oral hygiene can also get gum disease. That's why it is essential to pay sufficient attention to the condition of your mouth.
If you have noticed that your gums are bleeding during tooth brushing or on their own, it is better to make an appointment with the best dentist as soon as possible. As mentioned above, gum bleeding is deemed one of the most common symptoms of gum disease. If you don't have severe symptoms, your condition can be treated fast and efficiently.
The success rate of gum disease treatment depends on the severity of your condition. If you have gingivitis (the initial stage of gum disease), it can be easily treated. But if you have periodontitis that manifests itself through gum recession, loose teeth, and other unpleasant symptoms, the treatment can be more complicated. You should also know that periodontitis can't be cured, treatment for this condition is aimed at improving your symptoms.
Even though the initial stage of gum disease can cause mild symptoms, they can become more severe if you neglect your condition and don't undergo timely treatment. For example, your gums can recede and expose the roots of your teeth. This can result in increased teeth sensitivity and teeth loosening. Over time, your teeth lose their support and can even fall off. That's why it is dangerous to avoid proper treatment and think that gum disease is not a serious condition.
It is important to understand that people who don't maintain proper oral hygiene are more likely to develop gum disease. But the reality is that there are other factors that can contribute to this condition. For example, people with diabetes often have problems with gums. Additionally, a family history of gum disease also increases your chances to get it. Proper oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and regular dental check-ups can help prevent the development of gum disease or at least ease its symptoms.
It can seem that gum disease affects only gums and teeth. But it can also lead to the development of many health issues. You should know that bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation throughout the body. Gum disease is also linked with other health issues like heart and respiratory diseases, preterm delivery, low birth weight babies, stroke, osteoporosis, and diabetes. That's why it is essential to treat it as early as possible.
There is a common misconception that there is no reason to visit a dentist twice a year if you don't experience severe symptoms. But the reality is that only a professional dentist can recognize early signs of gum disease and other oral issues. Timely and proper treatment can help ease your symptoms and prevent the development of complications.