Many people have receding gums, and it can be quite an embarrassing thing for someone. Our teeth are one of the first things that we show when we interact with someone new. If you are not at your best, you could be harming your new personal relationships. While this may seem trivial and a bit conceited, we are scientifically designed to be drawn to people with appropriate hygiene.
Periodontal disease, or the term for the infection and inflammation of the gums, can be a very serious condition. But it certainly is not rare. Almost half of adults in the United States suffer from some form of the disease. So if you have been holding back on account of that, please listen to your dentist on ways to improve your periodontal health. This can improve not only your smile, but your overall health, as well! Today, your Grapevine, TX dentist speaks to you about the need to keep your periodontal health in check!
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease refers to the inflammation and infection of your gum tissue, and it can be seriously dangerous for your oral health. This is typically a bacterial infection that most often comes alongside poor oral hygiene. Many people believe that they are brushing too hard, especially if they see blood when they floss.
However, your mouth is capable of withstanding a fully rigorous brushing. If you are noticing this, it may be a sign that you are developing gingivitis. This is the first step in periodontal disease, and this should be brought to your dentist as soon as possible to avoid recession and infection. You may notice redness and tenderness at the site in your mouth, as well.
A Common Concern
Almost half of Americans over the age of 30 have some form of periodontal disease. This is also a leading cause of tooth decay and loss, especially if you have a form or a comorbid disease such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or cancer. Always make sure to be open with your dentist about your health concerns, and let your other doctors know about your dental situation. Comprehensive medicine entails an open patient, so let us help you!
If your gums have begun to recede, you may require a gum graft. This entails first cleaning the site, and removing all of the dead tissue. Then with a free gingival graft, the remaining periodontal tissue is pulled up to a healthy guideline. If you require more tissue, a donor site will be selected and material can be taken from there. This is usually in the roof of the mouth or the soft palate.
Questions? We’re Here For You!
If your gums are receding, don’t let them get any worse! For help in saving your oral health future, please reach out to Share Dentistry in Grapevine, TX today by calling 817-329-6000.
