Gum disease is the infection of the tissue that surrounds and keeps the teeth in place. It is incredibly common, affecting approximately half of Americans over the age of 30. The good news is that gum disease can be easily prevented with proper maintenance. Continue reading to learn more about gum disease and how your dental benefits can help you avoid it.
How Does Gum Disease Work?
Gum disease, sometimes referred to as “periodontal disease,” is an infection that affects the gum tissue. Usually caused by poor oral hygiene, plaque and tartar build up on the teeth and around the gum tissue, resulting in inflammation. Here are some of the consequences:
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Red/swollen gum tissue
- Tender, bleeding gums
- Painful chewing
- Gum recession
- Loose teeth
- Tooth loss
- Bone loss
Gum disease has a strong correlation with various other ailments in the body, including life-threatening conditions, like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
How Can You Prevent Gum Disease?
By brushing twice, flossing, and rinsing every day, you can prevent plaque and tartar buildups that result in gum disease. However, it is important that you see your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups. Even if you are a very diligent brusher and flosser, there are still going to be hard-to-reach places that you miss. Your hygienist will get into these areas to ensure that your teeth are clean both above and below the gumline. During your checkup, your dentist will keep an eye out for early signs of gum disease so action can be taken sooner rather than later. If you are struggling with gum disease, getting treatment can help to eliminate the infection and restore your health.
Utilize Your Dental Benefits!
If you have dental insurance, it’s important that you utilize your benefits. Each year, most plans include two cleanings and checkups, as well as X-rays. Dental insurance often also covers a percentage of necessary restorative treatments, including gum disease treatment. At the end of the year, these benefits will be reset, and any unused funds will be returned to your dental insurance company. By using your benefits now, you can prevent them from going to waste while setting your smile up for success.
If it has been a while since your last dental visit, now is the time to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Your smile, and your wallet, will thank you!
About the Practice
At Bright Smiles Dentistry, Dr. Praveena Muddana and Dr. Sumit Chanana work together to treat patients in the Brookfield community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. If you think you may have gum disease, they would be happy to help. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (262) 563-9100.