More than 80% of adults suffer from some form of gum disease. If you think it’s not a bad thing for your gums to bleed when brushing your teeth, think again. Most people think the same way, but for dental experts, this scenario is alarming.
Gums that bleed are an indication that you have inflammation or gingivitis. Gingivitis is the first, mild stage of gum disease which is caused by oral bacteria, and when left untreated can progress to an advanced stage called periodontitis as well as bone degradation and tooth loss.
How Gum Disease Affects Your Health and Can Cause Other Diseases
The disturbing truth is gum disease doesn’t only affect your teeth, mouth and overall dental health, it can also affect other parts of your body. Numerous studies show that gum disease can be linked to:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Lung infections
- Diabetes
- Fertility problems
- Arthritis
- Dementia and Alzheimer’s
- Cancer
Dealing with Gum Disease
The primary cause of gum disease is plaque. It’s a sticky invisible film of bacteria that grows on your teeth. It’s fed by starch and sugars from your food. The good news is that the onset of gum disease can be prevented by the removal of the plaque. With good dental care and professional help from your dentist, gum disease can be managed and treated.
Daily brushing and flossing effectively remove plaque build-up on your teeth. If the plaque hardens into tartar, it needs to be professionally removed by your dentist or dental hygienist using special instruments. They can scrape away that thick, hard layer of plaque.
It’s also important to recognize other factors that trigger gum disease, as this will help you lessen the chance of aggravating the problem. Aside from plaque, the following factors can also lead to gum disease:
- Certain medicines
- Viral and fungal infections
- Underlying health conditions
- Hormonal changes
- Poor nutrition
Your dentist can help you identify these factors as well as assist you in seeking the right treatment and care.
In addition to good dental home care and regular dental visits, a healthy lifestyle, diet, and managing your stress levels are all vital to keeping our teeth, gums and overall level of wellness in a good state. If you notice any problems in your mouth, be sure to speak to your dentist right away.
Treatment for Gum Disease at Dr. Sheetal Sachdeva B.D.S. Dental Surgeon
If your gums are red, swollen, puffy and easily bleed when you brush your teeth, then don’t hesitate to visit your trusted dentist in Wantirna South at Dr. Sachdeva’s Dental Surgery. Gum disease can lead to serious health problems if you don’t follow up with some professional treatment. Our dental team can help you manage the disease at home and do all the best that we can to ensure the overall health of your teeth and gums.
Dr. Sachdeva’s Dental Surgery is located on Stud Road, Wantirna South, proudly serving the local community with a personal priority to deliver quality oral health in a professional, comfortable and convenient clinic setting.
Wantirna South dentist also serving local communities in Knox City, Boronia, Bayswater, Scoresby, Rowville, Ferntree Gully, Vermont, Vermont South, Burwood, Burwood East, Ringwood, Ringwood East, and Wantirna.
#1. Book online now
#2. Call (03) 9800 2338
#3. Visit us at 287 Stud Road in Wantirna South