Gum Disease Prevention

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 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.

Visiting your general dentist, Dr. Martha Muldowney, at Main Square Dental in Roscoe, IL, for regular checkups and routine cleanings is not just a smart preventive method but a necessity.

Periodontal Disease:

Periodontal disease is caused by plaque. Dental plaque is a sticky substance that contains bacteria that produces acid that eventually eats away at teeth causing cavities. When teeth aren't thoroughly brushed, plaque buildup becomes something harder to clean: tartar.

You may notice swollen gums that bleed easily when tartar, or calculus, accumulate. So what should you keep an eye out for?

• Bad breath or bad taste that persists
• Gums pulling away from teeth
• Loose permanent teeth

Reasons for Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease):

There are several reasons a person may develop gum disease other than poor oral or dental hygiene. Here are a few to make note of:

• Crooked teeth that are difficult to clean
• Pregnancy
• Diabetes
• Smoking and chewing tobacco
• Certain types of medications
• Genetics

How do you prevent gum disease?

You should have an oral and dental examination at your Roscoe general dentist's office every six months. In addition to visiting your doctor, you should:

• Maintain a healthy oral habit: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily before bed.
• Avoid eating sugary foods: Stay away from things like sodas and candy because they contain acid-producing bacteria that break down teeth.

Would you like to make an appointment with your general dentist?

Do you suspect you may be suffering from gum disease? If you want to schedule an appointment with Dr. Martha Muldowney, call her Roscoe, IL, office, Main Square Dental at (815) 623-9292.