Excellent oral care is important in preventing dental issues. If you don't brush well or often enough, your gums could become inflamed and cause gum disease. Minor gum disease is called gingivitis. If this disease progresses, it leads to periodontitis, which affects the bone and can cause your teeth to fall out. If you're noticing a bit of blood in the sink while brushing your teeth, it’s time to schedule an appointment with Dr. Iryna Yelisetty at Sharon Springs Dental to prevent this condition from getting worse.
Symptoms
- You may have gum disease if you notice the following signs:
- Red, swollen or bleeding gums
- Pain when chewing
- Loose or sensitive teeth
- Receding gums
- Bad breath
Risk Factors
If the following apply to you, you have an increased risk of developing gum disease:
- Hormone changes: When girls start puberty or when women enter menopause, hormone levels change, making gums more sensitive.
- Serious illnesses and treatments: Diabetes, cancer, and AIDS - as well as treatments for these diseases - can increase the risk of gum disease.
- Certain medications: Many prescriptions reduce saliva flow, and this can be detrimental since saliva protects your mouth.
- Smoking: Smoking not only increases the risk of gum disease but makes treatment less successful as well.
- Genes: Some people are genetically predisposed to gum disease.
- Age: Those in their 30s and older are more likely to develop gum disease.
Don't Overlook the Symptoms
If you think you may have gum disease, seek dental help right away. If you wait too long, you could end up losing a tooth, which can be a traumatic experience. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.sharonspringsdental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Iryna Yelisetty at Sharon Springs Dental in Cumming, GA, call 470-253-1747.
