Why Do So Many People Get Gum Disease?

With the advanced state of dentistry today, it may seem like a wonder that disease like gum disease are still so prevalent. Dentists have the tools to help patients prevent or manage nearly any dental issue, but gum disease still affects a large majority of patients across the world. Today, we explore why by examining how gum disease forms, how it becomes so severe, and why paying more attention to your periodontal health matters so much.

How It Actually Forms

Gum disease is a progressive disease, and in the very beginning, it takes the form of a seemingly minor infection in your gums. This infection, known as gingivitis, is caused by excessive oral bacteria working their way underneath your gums. The bacteria release harmful toxins to irritate the tissue, causing it separate from your teeth so they can accumulate in the pockets.

How It’s Allowed to Grow Worse

Though gingivitis is highly destructive (the infection destroys your gums), it isn’t always detected right away. That’s because the redness, inflammation, and bleeding are often ignored or just not taken seriously. The more you ignore these symptoms, the more damage gingivitis can cause, and before long, it can progress into more serious gum disease.

Why It Matters So Much

By the time many patients seek treatment for gum disease, their gum tissue and jawbone structure have been so affected by gum disease that tooth loss or extraction is inevitable. Yet, missing teeth are only the beginning; unchecked inflammation related to gum disease can also heighten your risks for other chronic inflammatory diseases, including heart disease and failure.

Find Out How to Protect Your Smile from Gum Disease

If you’re among the many people who experience gum disease, then you may still have time to protect your smile (and more) if you seek treatment as soon as possible. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling Modern Smile in North Hollywood, CA, today at 818-763-9353. We also proudly serve patients who live in Burbank, Toluca Lake, and all surrounding communities.