Traditionally associated with aging, periodontal (gum) disease is also a problem among younger adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 47% of American adults over the age of 30 suffer from some form of gum disease, which has three stages ranging from mild to advanced. Dr. John Wyatt, a dentist serving the Wheat Ridge and Arvada, CO area, recommends practicing prevention by maintaining a good daily oral hygiene routine at home and scheduling regular oral checkups and dental cleanings to help prevent gum disease and maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Protect Your Teeth from Gum Disease in Wheat Ridge and Arvada, CO

Gingivitis is the mildest and earliest form of gum disease. The most common symptoms are red, swollen, tender and bleeding gums. At this stage, your dentist can typically reverse the damage with a dental cleaning. With daily brushing and flossing, gingivitis does not have to progress to the next phase, periodontitis. Advanced periodontitis is the last and most aggressive form of gum disease, which can result in tooth loss and serious gum inflammation and infections.

In addition to bleeding, the following symptoms are common signs of gum disease:

• Receding gums
• Loose teeth
• Chronic bad breath
• Pus between the teeth or gums
• New gaps and spacing between the teeth
• Noticeable changes to your bite pattern

How is Gum Disease Prevented and Treated?

The most effective way to protect your teeth and gums is to brush and floss daily and to see your dentist once to twice a year for a checkup and cleaning. Limiting sugary food and drinks and avoiding smoking are also important for your oral health. Gum disease can also be hereditary, making some people more susceptible than others. Deep cleaning procedures like root planing and scaling can help to remove plaque and tartar buildup between the teeth and under the gums.

Find a Family Dentist serving the Wheat Ridge and Arvada, CO area

It is never too late to take control of your oral health. For more information on how to prevent gum disease and to learn your individual risk levels, contact Dr. Wyatt by calling (303) 421-0600 today to schedule an appointment.