Did you know the word periodontal means “around the tooth”? That’s where periodontal disease also known as gum disease begins. It’s a serious bacterial infection that attacks the gums and the tissues surrounding the gum line and if it’s left untreated, it will continue until it gets to the underlying bone around the teeth. It will dissolve everything in its path and no longer be able to support the teeth in place. Many times it’s completely painless and can go undetected for a long time. Here are a few things to ask yourself if you’re wondering if you may have gum disease and not even know it:
Do you have Periodontal Disease?
- Do your gums bleed?
- Do you have a bad taste in your mouth?
- Are your gums red or swollen?
- Do any of your teeth feel loose?
- Do you currently suffer from diabetes, heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, osteopenia or an unusual amount of stress?
- Do you have numerous fillings, bridges, crowns in your mouth?
- Are your gums loose or move away from your teeth?
- Is there an area where your gums have receded (moved up or down) and make your teeth appear longer?
This quiz is NOT a replacement for an exam from a real medical/dental practitioner. However, if you answered yes to any of the above questions, there is a chance that you might have some form of periodontal disease and need treatment. There is no cure for periodontal disease, it can only be maintained through proper and frequent supportive periodontal cleanings and proper home care. Once you have gum disease you will always have it, especially if one or more of the risk factors mentioned above are present and uncontrolled. Periodontal disease can be prevented provided none of the other risk factors are part of the equation with proper home care and consistent visits to your dentist or periodontist.
If you are concerned you may have gum disease, the first thing you want to do is schedule an appointment to get an exam with us right away. We can do a quick assessment and tell you right away one way or another. If you do have gum disease we will work with you to set up a treatment plan to get you on the right track to managing your condition and keeping you as healthy as possible as quickly as possible. If you don’t have gum disease, but you are headed in that direction, we will course correct quickly and help you create a plan to turn you in a healthy direction fast! Either way, call our office at 858-538-8300 or click here to book online today and let’s get you healthy asap!
