Here’s a shocker for you: 75% of people are affected by gum disease (that’s 3 out of every 4 people!), but the majority of them will never be treated properly. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is usually pretty simple to take care of. That being said, the earlier you bring it to our attention, the better. Here at Health Centered Dentistry, Dr. Bell and our staff are experts in diagnosing gum disease. Give us a call or drop by anytime, and we’ll teach our Midland, TX patients everything you need to know about how to fight periodontal disease.
Now let’s examine the elephant in the room. Why don’t folks take care of their gum disease and stop it in its tracks? Most likely it’s because people don’t understand the extent of periodontal disease’s side effects when it comes to everyday life. Well, we’re going to tell you about how gum disease can adversely affect your life, but don’t worry, because regular cleanings and the occasional antibiotic course prescribed by Dr. Bell are usually all you need to keep your mouth happy and healthy.
Gum Infections Drain Your Energy
Your body’s immune system is a fantastic weapon against colds, infections, and a number of other things, but it takes a toll on your energy level. Gum disease is no different than any other infection, in that your immune system will battle it and you might feel tired during the ongoing biological struggle. The upside is that once treated, you’ll get all of that energy back.
Gum Disease Germs Can Cause Bad Breath
Gum disease can get pretty gross. If you have had it for a while and didn’t know (or chose not to treat it), your gums are likely home to several small pockets of puss. It is possible that you may overlook them while brushing and flossing, but it less likely that the unpleasant smell and taste of the puss deposits will go unnoticed. Not to worry, though, because a good cleaning at Health Centered Dentistry and some antibiotics from Dr. Bell can usually fix that right up!
Gum Disease Leads To Tooth Loss
Did you know that gum disease is the number one reason people lose their teeth? That’s right. The worst offender when it comes to losing teeth is not cavities as you might assume, it’s actually advanced gum disease. Don’t worry though, because Dr. Bell is very good at protecting his Midland, TX patients’ teeth.
Gum Disease Can Hurt Your Baby
Research has shown a link between gum disease in expecting mothers and a number of health problems in their newborn babies. Instances of premature birth, low birth weight, and many other complications have been to know to occur in children of mothers with periodontal disease. In addition, studies indicate having gum disease may even make it more difficult to conceive. Please, if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, contact Health Centered Dentistry and we’ll make sure that your gums are healthy, so your child can be too.
Gum Disease Takes Away from Your Smile
Periodontal disease will make your gums red and puffy, but that’s just the first step. In advanced stages gum disease can become considerably painful and will cause the support structure for your teeth to weaken and fail, leading to loose teeth, shifting, problems with your bite, and eventually, tooth loss. It is our duty at Health Centered Dentistry to protect the health of our patients and we are committed to helping each and every one of you keep your mouths healthy and your smiles beautiful.
Contact Dr. Bell today to make an appointment and take the first step towards treating your gum disease!
Sources
http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/OralHealth/Topics/GumDiseases/PeriodontalGumDisease.htm