Many have heard of gum disease, but if you’re like most people, you probably don’t know much about it. It’s caused by the spreading of bacteria and infection into your gums, and it can lead to several very dangerous conditions.

When bacteria and other particles are introduced to the mouth, they multiply and form plaque on your teeth. Plaque that is not properly removed by brushing and flossing can form into tartar which is a harder substance which can’t be cleaned off by simple brushing. If this tartar is left unchecked, it can cause you to get gum disease. 

As gum disease progresses, it causes your gums to become inflamed and weak. This can lead to you having the strange sensation that your teeth are little loose. You may also experience pain while chewing, sensitive teeth, or you may notice that your teeth look longer than they should, because the gums have receded. The potential dangers of gum disease include:

Damage to teeth. Because gum disease weakens your gums’ ability to stabilize the teeth, one of the great risks of gum disease is losing a tooth. In fact, gum disease is the most common cause for tooth loss among adults.

Increased blood sugar. If you have diabetes, you probably already know that this can be a big problem.

Heart disease. The American Academy of Periodontology has shown that individuals with gum disease are twice as likely to get coronary artery disease.

Potential pregnancy issues. Because pregnant women have unusually high levels of progesterone and estrogen, the gum tissues tend to become more reactive plaque. As a result, pregnant mothers are at higher risk of contracting gum disease, and should especially maintain their oral health by practicing good oral hygiene.

Dr. Trujillo, a periodontist in Phoenix, strongly recommends that patients come in for checkups if they are noticing bleeding gums or other symptoms that could be a sign of gum disease. All of us at Arizona Periodontal Group are e a kind, well-trained, team, and we know you’ll be happy you visited us!

Luckily, the treatment for preventing gum disease is relatively easy! Just brush and floss regularly, and come in periodically for a professional cleaning. Dr Trujillo, and the staff at Arizona Periodontal Group, we aspire to provide some of the best gum disease treatment in Phoenix. Make an appointment today to change your life and improve your smile!

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!