According to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly half of all adults over the age of 30 experience the symptoms of periodontal disease. This widespread but serious disorder can lead to discomfort and even tooth loss in extreme cases. Can you prevent gum disease? What steps can you take to avoid the onset of periodontal disease?
Frequently Asked Questions About Preventing Gum Disease
Question: What causes periodontal disease?
Answer: The disease develops when the gums become inflamed as a result of bacterial infection. The gum tissue then pulls away from the teeth, forming pockets at the gum line. Bacteria entering these pockets lead to the onset of the disease.
Question: Does brushing and flossing matter?
Answer: Yes. Believe it or not, something as simple as flossing and brushing can help strengthen your smile’s defenses against periodontal disease. Flossing and brushing remove food from the surface of the teeth and from between the teeth. Doing so prevents bacteria from breaking them down and causing plaque buildup, which often leads to inflammation.
Question: How does a dental cleaning aid in prevention?
Answer: A dental cleaning allows a doctor to remove plaque buildup from the teeth. Even the most thorough brushing and flossing can’t remove all plaque, a major cause of gum inflammation. Doing so reduces the risk of gum disease, freshens the breath, and also helps brighten teeth. You should have this procedure performed about once every six months.
Question: What warning signs should I be aware of?
Answer: You should watch for redness or soreness in the gums. In addition, chronic bad breath, receding gums, and bleeding when brushing or flossing are other common warning signs. In the advanced stages, you may also notice loose teeth. If you have any questions about preventing gum problems or maintaining optimal oral health then contact our office today.
ABOUT YOUR ASTORIA, NY, DENTIST:
Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, a native New Yorker, has welcomed patients and families from in and around Astoria, NY (including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since opening his dental practice in 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.
