Your mouth is full of bacteria, and while some of them are good germs that help with digestion and other processes, many of them contribute to common oral concerns. For example, if the wrong ones penetrate your connective tissues, they can cause an infection that starts small but can progress into a much more serious problem.
However, you might avoid contacting your dentist for help if you’re functioning under a misconception about this condition and how it’s treated. Continue reading to read about 3 myths about gum disease you shouldn’t believe!
Myth #1: It’s Not a Common Concern
You might not be overly worried about developing periodontal problems if you think that they’re a rare occurrence. You might even neglect brushing and flossing if you’re convinced that you can’t have gum disease if you don’t see visible symptoms.
Unfortunately, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has estimated that nearly half of American adults who are 30 years or older have some form of this common condition. Gingivitis, the earliest stage, is often missed because it doesn’t always present with noticeable symptoms. If your connective tissues appear darker, more swollen, or bleed when you floss, or if you have chronic bad breath, it’s time to contact your dentist to schedule an appointment.
Myth #2: It Can’t Be Avoided
While some people are convinced they’ll never get gum disease, others are afraid that there’s nothing they can do to prevent it. Thankfully, this condition can often be avoided, and sometimes even halted or reversed, by cleaning your mouth consistently.
For example, brushing and flossing twice daily regularly removes plaque and bacteria that can form along your gumline, increasing the risk of developing an issue. You should also schedule a checkup and cleaning with your dentist every six months to remove even the most stubborn tartar buildup, which strengthens your smile’s resistance to disease.
Myth #3: It Means I Will Inevitably Lose Teeth
Did you know that periodontitis, or advanced gum disease, is the number one leading cause of tooth loss in adults? This is because your tissues eventually start receding from your enamel to try to escape the progressing infection. Without a firm enough foundation, your pearly whites are more likely to become destabilized or dislodged.
As a result, you might feel anxious that developing gum disease means you’re going to lose your teeth. This is a distinct possibility in more severe circumstances, but if you seek help as soon as you notice a problem, there’s a good chance your dentist can stop the infection from progressing to safeguard your smile.
If you have additional questions about preventing periodontal issues, you can learn more during your next standard visit with your provider!
About the Practice
Patients at Mind Your Mouth benefit from two dentists eager to help families in South Portland build and maintain their healthiest, most beautiful smiles. Dr. Peret and Dr. Thaleia share over a decade of combined experience and collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services to people of all ages, including gum disease treatments. Their caring approach is combined with state-of-the-art equipment to deliver accurate, comfortable results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (207) 200-4106.