There is a common and dangerous gum condition that is called gum or periodontal disease, and this destructive oral health condition affects the majority of adults to varying degrees. While gum disease is mild in the beginning stages, the later stages can involve tooth loss, gum loss and bone loss. We encourage you to be proactive in treating any early signs of gum disease and preventing its development as much as possible.
The buildup of plaque in the mouth as a result of inconsistent dental hygiene is one of the main causes of gum disease, as this substance is rich in bacteria that causes inflammation and easy bleeding in the gum tissue. The presence of discomfort is not common in the early stages, but any signs of gum disease need treatment to prevent it from causing other serious oral health conditions. Advanced gum recession from gum disease enables the infection to reach your jawbone and deeply affect your oral health.
A general rule of thumb is that the most ideal treatment for gum disease is prevention. While a gum infection can be reversed in its initial stages, it can become advanced and require more invasive treatment. By practicing effective daily oral hygiene to remove plaque from your smile, you can protect your smile from the disease. Among your daily oral habits, you should be brushing and flossing your teeth every day to maintain your smile and prevent bacteria from affecting your teeth and gums.
Please contact our office at 801-756-7211 today if you would like to learn more about gum disease in American Fork, Utah, from our dentist, Dr. David Blackhurst.