Your gums support and nourish your teeth. If their health fails, your dental and systemic health is in trouble. At Murphy Dental Group in Milton, MA, family dentists, Dr. John Murphy, Dr. Patrick Murphy, and Dr. Natalie Shlosman, prioritize gum health, educating patients on the dangers of gingivitis and periodontitis.
What are gingivitis and periodontitis?
They are oral health problems affecting millions of Americans. While the CDC reports that age plays a role in gum issues, anyone can suffer with this problem.
Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease with symptoms so subtle it may go unnoticed. However, many people see it start with bleeding as they brush. Gingivitis is progressive and when not treated with better brushing, flossing and a thorough dental cleaning, it develops into periodontitis.
Periodontitis features reddened, puffy, bleeding gums, bad breath, and deep periodontal pockets. These pockets, or sulci, fill with plaque, tartar and bacteria, eventually causing:
- Exposed roots
- Recessed gums
- Damage to underlying jaw bone
- Mobile teeth
- Change in bite
- Tooth loss
Yes, tooth loss is the consequence of untreated gum disease. The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) says it is the number one reason why American adults lose teeth.
Gum disease, your health and why it all happens
Gum disease is an infection with inflammatory effects which spread throughout the body. The American Heart Association (AHA) says it's linked to heart attack, stroke, hypertension, coronary artery disease and other chronic problems. In short, gum disease is nothing to ignore.
The culprit behind periodontal disease is bacteria. They thrive in plaque and tartar on and between your teeth and at the gum line. That's why your daily brushing and flossing habits, along with six-month exams and hygienic cleanings with your family dentist in Milton, MA, are so important.
Additionally, these factors impact gum health:
- Age (over 65)
- Gender (more men than women, says the American Academy of Periodontology)
- Smoking
- Some prescriptions
- Stress
- Teeth clenching (bruxism)
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- A high-sugar diet
What you can do
In their Milton, MA, dental practice, your family dentists help scores of people who struggle with gum disease. The most important weapons are daily brushing and flossing, along with a high fiber diet, water and no smoking.
In the office, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums and measure your periodontal pockets. These spaces between your teeth and gums collect plaque and tartar. Your hygienist removes these biofilms when she scales and polishes your teeth. She'll recommend ways to prevent gum issues:
- Get an in-office cleaning and exam semi-annually
- Eat a diet high in water, fruits and vegetables
- Avoid all tobacco
- Reduce stress
- Wear a mouth guard to reduce clenching and grinding
- Floss daily with a product you actually will use
- Brush two times a day for two minutes
Contact Murphy Dental Group in Milton, MA
Dr. John Murphy, Dr. Patrick Murphy, and Dr. Natalie Shlosman are family dentists expert in preventive and restorative care for your gums. Call Murphy Dental Group to learn more: (617) 696-3900.