Did you know that over 75% of adults over the age of 30 may suffer from some level of gum disease? It's the most common disease affecting people, beating out even heart disease, stroke, and cancer!
Part of the reason why so many people suffer from gum disease is that it's easy to get; a daily dental care routine is not enough to prevent gum disease. Bacteria that stay on teeth create a layer of tartar that can then spread under the gums. Other factors such as genetics, smoking and diseases can affect the health of gums. Therefore, regular checkup visits to our Alliston dental office are recommended so that gum disease can be detected and treated early.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums and bone surrounding the teeth caused by bacteria on the surface of the teeth called plaque. In its early and less severe stages, it's termed gingivitis and presents as swollen and red gums.
If left untreated, however, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is when the plaque spreads to areas underneath the gums. This loosens the teeth within their sockets and leads to teeth falling out and gums moving away from teeth.
Gum Disease Treatment
The good news is that minor gum disease (gingivitis) is relatively easy to treat. A deep cleaning at our Alliston Village Dental office followed by regular maintenance at home should take care of it. In some cases, our dental team may suggest a deep cleaning, which involves scaling and root planing.
Remember, the best prevention for gum disease is good and consistent oral care at home. Take proactive steps to protect your oral health by booking a deep cleaning appointment at our Alliston Village Dental office today!