Did you know that February is National Gum Disease Awareness Month? Unfortunately, gum disease affects nearly 46% of all Americans over 30. This is a shame because gum disease is both preventable and curable. While our office can’t hold the 64.7+ million people suffering from gum disease, we certainly can try! We offer the best gum disease treatment in Alexandria, VA, to help combat this national crisis.
What is Gum Disease, Anyway?
Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a gum infection. While the root causes, such as plaque and built-up bacteria, are often to blame, genetics may play a minor role. Regardless, gum disease is preventable and curable if caught early. Extensive treatments such as scaling, root planing, flap surgery, and bone grafting ensure your gums stay safe and strong. However, if left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth loss, bleeding, inflammation, and sores.
What are the Common Symptoms of Gum Disease?
It’s hard to be aware of something you don’t understand. While gum disease hides under many masks, here are a few of its most iconic symptoms:
- Bleeding Gums. Gym disease might be to blame if your gums start to bleed without an apparent cause. Note your finding, and report back to your dentist.
- Wiggly Teeth. While wiggly teeth may be fun to play with your tongue, don’t be fooled. Loose teeth can become missing teeth real quick. Refrain from applying pressure on that tooth, and seek dental care.
- Mystery Pus. Something abnormal is happening and needs medical attention. If you notice mystery pus, don’t scratch your head too long. Seek dental assistance.
- Bad Breath. While there are plenty of causes of bad breath- from tuna fish sandwiches to tobacco- gum disease also causes foul breath. Protect your social status and prevent bad breath from harming your reputation.
How to Celebrate Like a Pro?
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or not, there are various healthy, productive ways to celebrate. Here are a few ideas to kick off your adventure:
- Treat Your Gums Like Royalty. Treat your gums like the kings/queens they are. After all, they do a lot for you. Go the extra mile and step up your oral hygiene. Brush a little longer; remember to floss, or pamper them with mouthwash.
- Buy Your Dentist a Diamond Watch. Well, yes and no! While doing something nice for your local dentist goes a long way, it doesn’t have to be a diamond watch. A thank-you card is more than enough to make their entire day.
- Spread the Word. In terms of prevention, awareness is critical. The more people know about gum disease, how it develops, and how to prevent it, the more unnecessary infections we can avoid. Whether it’s spamming #GumDiseaseAwarenessMonth, or sharing a dental-related video online, there’s always something we can do to help.
How to Prevent Gum Disease?
Down to the nitty and gritty: how do you prevent gum disease? Well, it’s simple. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups usually do the trick. Remember, plaque causes gum disease. You’ll be alright if you habitually remove plaque and prevent it from infecting the gums. If you need to go the extra mile, consider using mouthwash and limiting sugar.
Gum Disease Treatment in Alexandria, VA
Dr. Benson Clark and our dental experts use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to keep you healthy today, tomorrow, and forever. With our treatments, we transform gum “dis-ease” to gums “at-ease.” We operate on a patient-first system and have your best interests at heart. Our all-inclusive care and hardworking team will be with you every step of the way.
Are you interested? Contact us today to learn more.
