8 Surprising Facts About Periodontitis : You Must Know

Periodontitis or commonly known as gum disease is a prevalent dental condition in the world. It is so widespread that at least 70 percent of adult Americans are affected by it. This makes periodontitis one of the most common infections in the United States. Unfortunately, most people don’t even realize they are suffering from gum disease until it is too late.

Sadly, if the infection is not treated at the right time, it can lead to the loss of teeth. In this article, we discuss periodontitis facts to create awareness about this menace that affects millions of people. Without further ado, let’s get into it.

8 Interesting Facts About Periodontal Disease

1. Periodontitis is Silent

There is a huge probability that you might be suffering from gum disease, and you have no idea. Its symptoms start showing only when the disease has spread, and that’s why periodontitis is often referred to as a “silent killer.” The only way you can know you have gum disease is by getting dental exams every six months. If you are at higher risk, visit the dentist in Ancaster, ON, every three months. We are here for you if you are looking for dental periodontics treatment.

2. Periodontitis Can Affect Everyone

Some people think that just because they brush their teeth twice and they don’t smoke, they can’t be affected by gum disease. Yes, smokers and those who don’t maintain proper oral hygiene are at a higher risk of periodontitis, but that does not change that it affects everyone.

You can still get gum disease even if you don’t smoke. That’s why it is important to visit the dentist every six months. Early diagnosis ensures you don’t lose your natural tooth. Take your children to a pediatric dentist too. Periodontitis also affects kids.

3. Bad Breath is a Major Sign of Periodontal Disease

Experiencing bad breath, especially in the mornings, is a normal thing. However, it can also be a sign of gum disease. Therefore, instead of stocking up on mints, visit the dentist and get a diagnosis for gum disease. If gum disease is not the cause of bad breath, a dentist near you will help you to find the root cause and advise you accordingly. Talk to us if you are looking for periodontics dental services.

4. There is a Link Between Gum Disease and Other Medical Conditions

There is a link between your oral health and other parts of the body, including the cardiovascular system. By preventing gum disease, you play a role in preventing other infections, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and even Alzheimer’s disease.

5. Gum Disease Can Be Hereditary

If you are prone to gum disease, there is a high chance that you will pass this problem to your kid. A study by the American Academy of Periodontology found that genetics increases the risk of one getting periodontitis. Therefore, if your family is prone to this infection, visit the dentist even more frequently.

6. Periodontitis is Treatable

As much as periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States, it is still treatable. Your dentist just needs to detect it before it is too late and has not destroyed the jawbone completely, and the tooth has fallen out. Furthermore, it is possible to regrow the destroyed bone. Therefore, the chances of treating gum disease are always high.

There are several treatment options for the condition, and the dentist will choose the one that suits your condition the most. At the extreme edge, surgery is involved. But, typically, it involves a thorough cleaning of the affected tooth.

7. Periodontal Disease Can Affect Dental Implants

Dental implants may be safe from dental decay but not from periodontitis. In fact, gum disease is one of the leading causes of implant failure. The infection will not affect the implant itself, though. It affects the tissue surrounding it, leading to implant failure.

8. Gum Disease is Preventable

As the saying goes, “prevention is better than cure.” Instead of waiting until you get gum disease to seek treatment, you can make sure you don’t get it in the first place. Luckily, preventing is quite easy. You just need to brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss every night, use mouthwash after flossing, and visit the dentist every six months.

Book an appointment with our dentist at Golf Links Dental

If you are looking for a periodontics dental office you can trust, you are in the right place. We assure you services of the highest quality at affordable rates. Book an appointment now.