Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because gum disease is usually painless, you may not know you have it. Gum disease, also called periodontal disease or periodontitis, is caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that is constantly forming on our teeth. This is very common but largely preventable. It’s usually the result of poor oral hygiene.
The Prevalence of Gum Disease
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently did a study to regarding those who suffer from gum disease. The study confirmed that almost 50 percent of adults in the U.S., who are over the age of 30, have the advanced form of periodontal disease, or gum disease. The data they gathered was from the years 2009 through 2012. They found that gum disease is prevalent in the United States. Americans bear a very heavy burden when it comes to periodontal disease.
What Does That Mean For Us?
Simply put, as a country, we need to be better at dental hygiene. We need to do better at it in our individual homes. We need to put public health programs in place that aims to prevent and control gum disease. By promoting overall health in adults we can significantly reduce the rate of periodontitis. This also will improve individuals health in the long run and help to prevent some serious diseases later on in life.
The good news is that periodontal disease is both preventable and reversible if caught early enough. Brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily and getting regular dental checkups can greatly improve your chances of successful treatment for periodontitis and can also reduce your chance of developing it.
Regular Dental Checkups
Having regular dental exams is vital in preventing and reversing gum disease. The study findings recommended that all adults over the age of 30 should have annual comprehensive periodontal evaluations and assessments by a dental professional. This is the only way that gum disease can be identified and treated.
If you think you may have gum disease or would like an exam to evaluate your dental needs, Dr. Trujillo of Arizona Periodontal Group is the Phoenix Periodontist you’ve been looking for. He is bilingual, speaking both Spanish and English, and is committed to his patients and their needs. Don’t let another day go by thinking you may have gum disease, schedule an appointment today!
