When it comes to most common, not even winter colds strike as many of us as gum infection (periodontal disease). As many as 75% of adults will be a victim sometime in their lifetime. That is 3 out of 4 people has some kind of gum infection.
If this infection could grow on your arm, you’d be horrified. Would you let puffy, red, bleeding tissue go unchecked on your arm?
Why is it ok for gums to bleed and ache and people accept that as normal? Periodontal disease does its dirty work out of sight: inside your mouth. Left alone, it opens up gaps between gums and teeth. It doesn’t hurt until you’re well on your way to losing your teeth entirely. Especially for people with weaker immune systems, the infection spreads deeper more rapidly.
How can I stop gum infections?
Gum infection comes from sticky, invisible colonies of bacteria called plaque that live in the crevices between gums and teeth. Left by themselves, these critters organize to do their damage. If they’re “disorganized” at least once every 24 hours, they never get time to recolonize and continue the infection.
Home dental hygiene is a matter of disturbing these bacterial pests daily. That means first brushing your teeth or dental implants with a soft toothbrush. Then working dental floss down between the margin of your teeth and gums to dislodge plaque colonies that have built up during the day. Using a waterpik or electric toothbrush will also do the trick. OraCare mouthrinse is also an amazing addition to fighting the battle of periodontal (Gum) disease.
Gum disease is a lot like heart disease or diabetes. Many think that if they feel ok that things are ok. That may or may not be true. Regular teeth cleanings are a critical part to managing and treating gum disease. Natural teeth and Dental Implants can both get periodontal infections. It is easier to maintain health than get back to health once things have gotten out of control.
So much of your dental health depends on what you’re willing to do about it. With vigilant home care and regular dental cleanings, together we can beat the statistics. Ask your hygienist at your next visit if you have signs of gum disease and what can be done to stop it.