Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adult Americans, yet many people are surprisingly under-informed about it. In this blog post from Just Smiles General, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry in Westerville, we share some basic facts about gum disease.
- In its earliest and most treatable stage, gum disease is called gingivitis. The more advanced form is called periodontitis.
- More than half of Americans who are thirty and older have periodontitis. That equals nearly sixty-five million people.
- The best way to prevent gum disease is to brush and floss your teeth twice a day, and have a dental checkup twice a year.
- Gum disease has few symptoms in its early stages. You could have it but be completely unaware.
- Tiny amounts of blood in the sink when you brush is not normal. If you see a little blood when you brush and floss, make an appointment with us right away.
- Improved brushing and flossing, along with using an antiseptic mouthwash, is often enough to successfully treat gingivitis.
- Advanced gum disease affects bone and ligaments, in addition to the gums. It requires more aggressive treatment, such as deep cleaning, but it too can be reversed.
- Gum disease has been linked to more serious health conditions, including heart attacks, stroke, and Alzheimer’s.
These are frightening facts. They remind us of the old saying that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. To put it another way: guard your dental health with regular brushing and flossing, and regular checkups at Just Smiles General, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry in Westerville. We treat gum disease. People from Columbus, Galloway, and Galena also come to us for complete general dentistry. Fill out a patient form and contact us for your next checkup today!
Contact Just Smiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
Locations (Tap Below To Open Your Office In Google Maps):
Just Smiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
656 N State St
Westerville, OH 43082
614-823-8668Just Smiles Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
1921 Hilliard Rome Rd
Hilliard, OH 43026
614-777-8668