Gum disease is surprisingly common, and estimates say that nearly 50 percent of Americans have some stage of it. Gum disease is commonly brought on by an infection in the gums caused by harmful bacteria.
Healthy gums are just as important as healthy teeth because they are the structures that hold your teeth in place. At Echeverri Dental Center in the Spring Branch East neighborhood of Houston, TX, we provide expert gum disease treatment to prevent it from progressing and damaging your smile.
How Gum Disease Affects Your Overall Health
The effects of periodontal disease aren’t just limited to your teeth and gums. Your mouth is the gateway to your body, and the bacteria that cause gum disease can travel to other organs and systems of the body. Many conditions, including diabetes, heart and lung disease, cancer, arthritis, and dementia, have been linked to gum disease.
Gum Disease Symptoms
Gums are made of soft tissue, which makes them sensitive to harmful bacteria. If not cared for with consistent brushing and flossing and routine teeth cleanings, gums become inflamed and infected, commonly known as gum disease or periodontal disease.
Many people who have gum disease don’t often realize it because the symptoms can go unnoticed. This is why gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. The following symptoms characterize gum disease:
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Bleeding while brushing and flossing
- Persistent bad breath, known as “halitosis”
- Pus on the gums
- Receding gums
- Sensitive teeth
- Loose, wiggly teeth
Call Echeverri Dental Center to schedule an exam if you have any of these symptoms and think it might be gum disease. Our skilled dental hygienists will diagnose your symptoms and, if they find gum disease, will customize a treatment plan to restore your gum health.
