Stop Gum Disease in Its Tracks!

Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in adults in the United States. The prevalence of gingivitis in school-aged children is universal, with a reported rate as high as 95%!

February is  Gum Disease Awareness Month, a great time to learn vital information about gum disease so you can safeguard your loved ones. Gum disease can cause serious issues, so it’s crucial to know the risks and symptoms.

Call 813-576-0200 to schedule a children’s dentistry consultation with Dr. Botero today!

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss if not treated on time. Gum disease occurs when plaque builds up on your teeth and forms tartar deposits that destroy the gums’ fibers, creating pockets between the tooth and the teeth around it. If this happens, bacteria that’s present in plaque can infect the root of the tooth. Eventually, this infection spreads to the bone and gum tissue surrounding the teeth. If you have an advanced form of gum disease called periodontitis, your teeth might fall out or have to be removed by a dentist.

By the Numbers

With 3.2 million people in the United States suffering from poor gum health, this is a pestilence that can not be overlooked.

In fact, according to the American Dental Association, gum disease contributes to poor overall health and is linked with some of America’s deadliest diseases.

“Studies show that adults who have had more exposure to gum disease are at increased risk for developing diabetes, heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis,” said the ADA on their website. “Additionally, recent studies show that people with chronic periodontitis may be nearly four times as likely to develop coronary heart disease as those without periodontitis.”

Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease

Gum disease is a medical condition that causes your gums to become swelled and inflamed. Symptoms of gum disease include swollen gums around one or more teeth and possible bleeding while you brush your teeth or floss. If it’s left untreated, gum disease can progress until the teeth fall out. Don’t let this happen! Gum disease typically begins in childhood and if untreated, can result in painful treatments later in life. The best way to prevent gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene at a young age.

Treatment for Gingivitis and Gum Disease

Luckily for those who suffer from poor gum health, there is treatment. Experts recommend visiting a dentist regularly and taking care of your teeth at home by brushing and flossing daily.

If you develop gum disease, your dentist will go through a list of treatment options with you to help fight the infection and restore healthy gums. Treatment options include:

• Professional cleanings
• Gum disease medications, such as antibiotics or special mouthwashes
• Procedures to remove tartar, called curettage and root planing
• Surgery to correct bone loss around the teeth

Prevention is Key

It is important to remember that the presence of carious lesions, gingivitis, and periodontitis can be prevented. The key factor in preventing these diseases is education of both the patient and caregiver on how to properly care for teeth at home.

The importance of early diagnosis in children cannot be overstated because treating the disease at an early age offers the greatest likelihood of preservation and/or improvement in periodontal health.

Schedule an Exam with Dr. Botero Today for a Gum Health Evaluation!

If Dr. Botero finds high levels of decay or gum damage in your child’s mouth, she may recommend a dental sealant to help safeguard your child’s teeth from cavities and further damage. But, most of all, the presence of gum disease requires instant action by our Li’l Sunshine Smiles Dentistry team and by you, the caregiver. Our team will help you identify trouble spots in your child’s mouth and give you tips for improving the oral care in that region. As we work together, we can help treat gum disease and restore your child’s optimal oral wellness.

Call 813-576-0200 to schedule a children’s dentistry consultation with Dr. Botero today!