Good oral hygiene is the best preventive care. We think we'll lose teeth only when we age or if we've been in an accident but, while that is to some degree true, those aren't the only ways. Poor oral hygiene results in gum disease and, eventually, tooth loss, if not properly cared for. Drs. Joseph Palumbo, Sami Yousuf, and Michael LaGuardia of East Lyme, CT, offer their patients an array of services to help prevent and treat gum disease when you visit East Lyme Family & Cosmetic Dentistry.
More About Gum Disease
"Half of Americans aged 30 or older have periodontitis, the more advanced form of periodontal disease," according to recent findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which is equivalent to about 65 million Americans.
Gum disease (periodontitis or periodontal disease) occurs because of bacterial growth in your mouth. Bacteria destroy oral tissue and may cause tooth loss if not properly treated.
How does this happen?
Bacteria causes gingivitis, gum inflammation. When plaque buildup around teeth, bacteria living in plaque start attacking soft tissue. If left untreated, the toxins produced by bacteria break down bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place, and ultimately a person may lose their teeth.
Early Symptoms of Gum Disease
As mentioned above, preventive care is key. You need to take proper care of your teeth to notice the following happening:
- Gums bleed during and after tooth brushing
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Bad taste in your mouth
- Receding gums
- Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Teeth don't fit together quite as well when biting down
Do you need to speak with a dentist?
Oral care is more than flossing and brushing, you need proper dental examinations and bi-yearly cleanings. If you'd like to learn more about what Drs. Joseph Palumbo, Sami Yousuf, and Michael LaGuardia of East Lyme, CT, offer their patients, then give them a call at (860) 739-3447 at their practice: East Lyme Family & Cosmetic Dentistry.