Gum disease is a prevalent problem threatening the oral health of millions of Americans. In fact, the American Dental Association estimates that nearly half of the population over the age of thirty have some degree of gum disease. At the same time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have also found that around 65% of seniors have moderate to severe levels of gum disease.
When plaque and residual food particles are not effectively removed through your daily oral hygiene routine, they can easily harden into tartar. Tartar is a bacterial rich substance that is very hard to remove with brushing and flossing at home. This constant bacterial presence near the gums often leads to the inflammation and eventual infection in the gum tissues–commonly known as gum disease.
Gum disease starts out in the form of gingivitis. Common symptoms often include: gums that can bleed easily when brushing and flossing, as well as issues with chronic bad breath. In many cases, the gums might also look red or inflamed. Improvements to your daily oral hygiene routine and your dental cleaning with Dr. Johnny Wong can often reverse gingivitis.
If gingivitis is allowed to advance unchecked, it will eventually develop into the more serious form of gum disease known as periodontitis. This inflammation and infection causes the gums to slowly pull back from the base of the teeth. In time, pockets of infection form near the roots of your teeth. Periodontitis can even result in a loss of structure in the bones that anchor your teeth to your jaw.
Increased focus on brushing and flossing twice per day is the most effective preventive measure. Be sure to floss along the gum line and behind your last molar. Attending your regular dental checkups with Dr. Johnny Wong will then serve to remove any minor areas of tartar buildup before they become a more serious problem.
If you are concerned that you might be developing gum disease, please contact Dr. Johnny Wong’s office in Newport Beach, California at 949-642-9928 to schedule a checkup. We are happy to help you keep your oral health in tip-top shape!