Gum disease or periodontal disease is a bacterial infection and it is extremely common. Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that nearly 50% of American adults have some form of this disease.
Why Gum Disease deserves to be Taken Seriously
It is a potentially serious condition that in it mildest form will damage your gums, while advanced periodontal disease will cause jawbone loss and ultimately tooth loss. Unfortunately the bad news doesn’t end there as periodontal disease has been linked to numerous health problems, including heart disease and diabetes.
Here at Crystal Dental Centers, we all take this disease extremely seriously. Our Los Angeles dentist will provide you with the highest quality preventative dental care to keep your gums strong and healthy.
So How Can You Reduce Your Risk?
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Book Regular Checkups
It’s best to schedule regular checkups at six-month intervals. Periodontal disease is often called the ‘silent disease’ as the early symptoms are easily missed. By regularly checking the health of your gums, our Los Angeles dentist can soon detect any tiny changes to your dental health. The good news is that early gum disease or gingivitis is often easily treated and can be completely cured before it causes any lasting damage.
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Book Regular Hygiene Appointments
This preventative dental care treatment is great for your gums, removing any hardened plaque or calculus from your teeth. Plaque is that sticky layer that builds up over your teeth during the day and it quickly hardens into calculus unless removed during brushing and flossing. Plaque and calculus consist of toxin-producing bacteria that will inflame and infect your gums, gradually destroying them.
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Look After Your Teeth and Gums at Home
Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of gum disease, so make sure you brush your teeth a minimum of twice a day and don’t forget to floss your teeth once-a-day. Hate flossing? Ask our Los Angeles dentist or our hygienist for personalized instructions.
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Watch out for Early Symptoms
Be vigilant and watch out for early signs. If you notice your gums have begun to bleed when you brush or floss, or they look red or swollen, please contact us without delay. It is not normal for healthy gums to bleed.
Some people are more at risk of developing gum disease, including diabetics or people with other health conditions affecting their immune system and smokers. This is why we will ask you about your medical history upon your visit. We also like to keep a close eye on our pregnant patients, as pregnancy does increase the risk of gingivitis.
If you are overdue for a checkup, call Crystal Dental Centers now to schedule your appointment 213.748.8448 or visit http://crystaldentalcenters.com/ to find a location near you.
