Have you ever wondered how someone ends up needing dentures? Many of us think losing our teeth is something that simply won’t happen to us. But did you know that one of the keys to never needing dentures is maintaining healthy gums? Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. It is important to understand the warning signs of gum disease because the sooner you treat it, the better your chance for keeping your teeth for the long haul.
Gum disease is usually caused by a buildup of plaque that then turns to tarter. The best way to avoid gum disease is by regular brushing and flossing to remove plaque, and having regular dental cleanings to remove tarter. Remember, the longer plague and tarter stay on your teeth, the more harmful they become. Other factors that can increase your risk for gum disease include hormonal changes, smoking or chewing tobacco, diabetes, serious illnesses like cancer, taking certain medications and having a history of gum disease in your family.
Gum Disease Warning Signs:
If you have any of the above signs, talk to your dentists about them. He or she will be able to determine if these signs are in fact related to the progression of gum disease.
