Gum disease is the serious inflammation and infection of gum tissues, which affects millions of Americans each year. The American Dental Association estimates that nearly half of the population over age 30 has some degree of gum disease. Even more disconcerting is the report by the Centers for Disease Control estimating that 64 percent of people over age 65 have moderate to severe gum disease.
Hardened tartar at the gumline is the primary cause of gum disease. Your chances of developing gum disease are increased by other activities, such as tobacco use and alcohol consumption. Certain medical conditions, like dry mouth and diabetes, also serve as increased risk factors.
Gum disease starts out as gingivitis. This often results when plaque and residual food particles are not effectively removed during the twice daily brushing and daily flossing of your teeth. These substances then harden into tartar, thus exposing your gum tissues to a constant bacterial presence, which leads to inflammation.
If gingivitis is not treated by a dental cleaning with your dentist, Dr. Kamy Noruzi, and by improvements in your oral hygiene routine, gum disease will advance. Eventually it will develop into the most dangerous form of gum disease known as periodontitis.
Periodontitis causes your gums to recede from the base of your teeth, forming pockets of infection deep down at the root. In time, this can even lead to the loss of bone structure that anchors your teeth in your mouth.
Continuing research has also found a relationship between periodontitis and medical conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
If you are concerned that you might be developing gum disease in Geneva, Illinois, you shouldn’t hesitate to call Fox River Periodontics, PC at 630-232-7400 for a checkup and treatment.