At least 80% of the population has some degree of gum disease and most
don’t know it. Gum disease is responsible for up to 70% of adult
tooth loss, and it does not give clear warning signs that an untrained
eye would notice. A dentist or hygienist must do a thorough and complete
examination to detect it; especially in it’s early stages. Gum
disease is similar to high blood pressure, or heart disease, by the time
the person who has it notices symptoms it is in its advanced stages.
Gum disease has been implicated as causative factor in heart disease,
stroke, diabetes, pre-mature births, and low birth weight. It is an
infection of the gums and jawbones. The bacteria, and chemical by-products
of your bodies attempt to fight the bacteria, can enter the blood stream
and cause serious problems in distant parts of the body. It critical
to have the teeth cleaned and a thorough examination a minimum of twice
a year, and it is critical that you do a thorough job at home cleaning
the teeth twice daily. The good news is that gum disease can be treated
and prevented. Today there are numerous aids available to help us,
which include special toothbrushes, toothpastes, rinses and even prescription
medications can help. Your dentist can decide the appropriate treatment
method only after examination of your condition.
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