Gum disease is common and begins by encountering bleeding, puffy, and swollen gums, particularly when you brush and floss your teeth. The condition, if not properly managed, can get worse and threaten your oral health. That is why it is critical to seek expert help from experts such as Jochen Pechak, DDS, MSD, one of the best Monterey, CA oral surgery providers. Dr. Pechak can diagnose your condition and help you manage it effectively. However, several misconceptions surround the disease and may affect your ability to take preventative measures or seek help when needed. Here are several facts to help you understand gum disease.
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Periodontal Disease Can Get Anyone
Some people believe that gum disease affects only the elderly. Please, this is not true. Such information can affect your ability to notice gum disease symptoms early enough to seek the care you need. The truth is that anyone, including children, can get the illness. Therefore, if you observe any suspicious symptoms in your oral health at any age bracket, it would help if you seek medical assistance early enough.
Gum Disease Can Be Genetic
While your hygiene habits contribute highly to the chances of getting gum disease, genetics can also contribute to the issue. Therefore, it is good to look back in your family history, and if gum disease is part of it, your risks for the condition are high. However, it does not mean that the condition is inevitable for you. by maintaining good oral health habits, you can lower your chances of experiencing the condition.
Other Health Complications Can Contribute to Gum Disease
Various studies have shown that there is a reasonable connection between gum disease and several other health complications. If you are diagnosed with a stroke, diabetes, or cancer, you might be at a higher risk of gum disease. Therefore, be watchful of early periodontitis signs to ensure you catch it early, increasing the chances of effective management.
You Can Acquire Gum Disease from Others
It is good to note that gum disease is contagious, and you can get it from someone else. The bacteria from an infected person can get to you through saliva if you get into contact. Therefore, it would be better to avoid kissing, sharing toothbrushes, drinking from the same bottle or glass, taking a bite from the same food, and using the same utensils such as spoons, particularly if they have an infection.
Healthy Diet Can Help You Prevent the Condition
A healthy diet has more benefits besides keeping your overall well-being optimal. It keeps gum disease at bay. Dairy products rich in calcium, in particular, can help give back some important minerals to your teeth. They can also help rebuild your tooth’s enamel and decrease your acidity levels, hence fighting against tooth decay. Therefore, you can consult your provider to learn the particular foods you can incorporate into your diet to avoid gum disease.
Regular Brushing Alone is Not Enough
Although it is vital to brush your teeth regularly, it is not enough to prevent bacterial infection on your teeth. Other oral hygiene practices such as flossing and the use of mouthwash intended for gum health can help. Besides, it is critical to have regular professional cleanings from your dentist as they can eliminate any bacteria that may have developed in hard-to-reach areas.
Dr. Pechak and the Perio & Implant Center Monterey Bay and Silicon Valley can help you learn more about gum disease. Having the right information is critical to help you know when to seek help.