Visiting your dentist in Arlington, VA, for regular checkups and deep cleanings is a must. Why? Because almost 50% of adults over the age of 30 have chronic periodontitis in the US, which is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Call to schedule your check-up today at Virginia Dental Care.
What is periodontic disease?
Poor oral health causes plaque buildup, which eventually leads to periodontal disease. So, what's dental plaque? It's this sticky substance consisting of bacteria. The bacteria produce acid that breaks down teeth causing cavities.
You need to maintain a healthy oral regimen, like brushing thoroughly to remove plaque buildup and flossing to remove food particles between teeth. This helps you avoid tartar and calculus building up which may lead to gum disease.
What are some symptoms?
- Swollen gums
- Gums that easily bleed
- Bad breath or bad taste that persists
- Gums pulling away from teeth
- Loose permanent teeth
Reasons for Periodontic Disease (Gum Disease):
People may develop gum disease for reasons other than poor oral or dental hygiene:
- Crooked teeth that are difficult to clean
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes
- Smoking and chewing tobacco
- Certain types of medications
- Genetics
How do you prevent periodontic disease?
You should have an oral and dental examination at your Arlington dentist's office every six months. Your dentist can detect issues early on when it's easier to treat them, like superficial cavities. You should also get a professional cleaning every six months. Visiting your dentist for deep cleanings twice a year is vital. It removes tartar from dental surfaces and bacteria deep in the gum tissue.
Would you like to make an appointment with your general dentist?
Do you suspect you may be suffering from periodontic disease? If you want to schedule an appointment with your Virginia Dental Care dentist in Arlington, VA, call (703) 276-1010.
