Categories: Gum Disease

How Does One Get Gum Disease?

Most people know about cavities, but what about gum disease? Both of these issues can affect your oral health, but people often overlook gum problems. There are varying levels of severity when it comes to this condition. Even minor bouts with it can cause pain and discomfort. If you do not treat it, you could suffer severe health effects. You should know how to identify the symptoms of this disease and what leads to it.

Clues that a person has gum disease

Like tooth decay, gum conditions can start out small. Over time, however, it is usually clear that there are oral health concerns. Diseased gums will usually bleed during brushing. Sometimes, the gums may bleed more frequently. The gums may also become inflamed and be tender to the touch. These are signs that the person has gingivitis, a milder form of the disease.

At more serious stages, periodontitis occurs. Symptoms may include receding gums and infections in the mouth. The infection can spread from there throughout the body. Cardiovascular problems can link to gum disease.

Not enough brushing

Occasional brushing (or never brushing at all) will likely lead to gum disease. Brushing with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride-based toothpaste removes food particles from the teeth and at the gumline. Doing this will prevent bacteria from building up and causing plaque and tartar. Brushing should occur at least twice a day. Inattention to these details will increase the individual’s chances of developing gingivitis and subsequently periodontitis.

Poor flossing habits

Flossing is just as important in the fight against gum disease. Flossing can dislodge particles of food from places that brushing may miss, such as in between hard-to-reach teeth. People of all ages should floss daily, preferably after eating or at the end of the day. Ignoring this habit will cause gums to swell and become tender. Bacteria will form and start to pull the gums away from the teeth.

Avoiding the dentist

Going to the dentist’s office may not be the most exciting thing, but it is vital. A semiannual dental checkup allows the dentist to clean the patient’s teeth and examine the individual for emerging problems. A patient may not recognize gum disease, but a dentist can spot this concern and start a treatment plan. People who rarely, if ever, go to the dentist may never get the professional care they need to combat this issue. Someone with gum problems may need to visit the dentist more often, as much as every two months.

Do your part to stay healthy

You do not want to contend with the effects of gum disease. The consequences could be severe for your oral health and oral wellness. Poor oral hygiene is a major culprit of this condition. If you stay on top of brushing and flossing, and if you visit the dentist, you can maintain healthy gums. Talk to your dentist today if you have concerns about how your gums look and feel.

Request an appointment here: https://sexton-dental.com or call Sexton Dental at (740) 363-2080 for an appointment in our Delaware office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Gum Disease in Delaware, OH.

Recent Posts

What Can Happen If My Gum Disease Is Left Untreated?

Gum disease is very serious; nonetheless, many people still ignore the signs and put seeking treatment for it on the back burner. Oftentimes, gum disease shows warning signs that are hard to miss, such as inflammation, bleeding, or redness. Whenever these signs are discovered, it is important to get to a general dentist right away…

Gum Disease Can Ruin A Great Weekend

Gum disease can spread throughout the mouth and damage multiple teeth in the process. Fortunately, it is entirely preventable with the proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. We can go over more at one such checkup.Gum DiseaseAt Sexton Dental in Delaware, we work to customize your treatment to match your needs and schedule where…

Don't Skip Brushing Your Teeth Twice A Day

If you notice that your gums are receding, do not hesitate to call us and schedule an appointment. We will examine your gums at an appointment and determine the best treatment method.I Think My Gums Are RecedingAt Sexton Dental in Delaware, we work to customize your treatment to match your needs and schedule where possible.…

Healthy Teeth Will Lead To A Happy Life

There are a variety of reasons from over-brushing to gum disease. If your gums bleed for more than one day and you are brushing gently, then schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible.Why Are My Gums BleedingAt Sexton Dental in Delaware, we work to customize your treatment to match your needs and schedule…

Dr. Sexton

Share
Published by
Dr. Sexton

Recent Posts

General Dentistry FAQ: When Is a Dental Filling Recommended?

In general dentistry, dental fillings are one of the most common restorative procedures performed.

3 days ago

How a Dental Sealant Protects Teeth from Cavities

How a Dental Sealant Protects Teeth from Cavities | Tooth decay tends to affect the…

1 month ago

Dental Restoration: Learn About Fillings

Sexton Dental -- Find out how a filling works as a dental restoration. This article…

2 months ago

5 Benefits of Getting a Professional Dental Cleaning

Professional teeth cleanings get rid of tartar deposits on tooth surfaces, which protects against gum…

3 months ago

How Preventive Dentistry Can Avoid a Serious Dental Issue

Working with your dentist can determine the ideal preventive dentistry strategies that can help you…

5 months ago

When Might a General Dentist Recommend Dental Bonding?

Dentists frequently use dental bonding to treat oral health and cosmetic challenges. To repair chips…

6 months ago