Watch Our VideoIf you don’t know how to fight gum disease, your chompers could be in major danger. Periodontal disease, which impacts virtually 50% of the population, is one of the chief causes of tooth corrosion, bloody gums, and lost teeth. Here is a small summary on what causes periodontal disease, who is at risk and what you can do about it.
Gum disease occurs once bacterial acids have formed excessive amounts of plaque on pearly whites. When that plaque remains uncleaned for too long, it can harden, making tartar, resulting in a necessary cleaning by an oral professional. Left to sit, tartar will harm the soft tissue of the gums and decay and loosen teeth.
Risk factors for gum disease include smoking, diabetes, genetic susceptibility, stress, grinding or clenching chompers, advanced age, certain meds affecting dental health, poor diet and obesity. Men have an increased chance of developing gum disease compared to women. Advanced plaque or tartar build-up raises susceptibility of forming gum disease.
Prevention is the number one strategy for combating periodontal disease. By brushing your teeth two times a day, flossing once per day and visiting our office for checkups and cleanings regularly, you’ll be triumphant in the battle against periodontal disease. Please keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright by calling our Dr. Paul Lee office in Fairfax, Virginia, at 703-352-9600 now to pencil in your next appointment with Dr. Paul Lee.