Are you one of the over 64.7 million adults currently suffering from periodontal disease? If so, you understand how uncomfortable the disease can be. What causes gum disease? Understanding the cause of the disease can help you know how to prevent it in the first place.
Gum Disease Quiz
- True or False: Multiple factors can lead to periodontal disease.
- True or False: Symptoms include sore or red gums.
- True or False: Without treatment you may lose a tooth.
- True or False: You can prevent the disease with preventive treatment.
Answer Key
- True. Inflammation causes the gums to form pockets as they pull away from the teeth. Bacteria then invade these pockets, leading to the onset of the disease. A variety of factors can lead to inflammation, including plaque buildup due to poor oral hygiene, chronic illness, certain medications, age, genetic factors, smoking, and hormonal changes.
- True. Patients with the disease may encounter soreness or redness in the gums. The gingival tissue may also bleed when brushing and flossing. The gums can recede or the patient encounter persistent bad breath. In the advanced stages, the patient may notice teeth feel loose.
- True. Loose teeth occur because in the advanced stage, also known as periodontitis, the connective tissue between the teeth and gums dissolve. Eventually, a patient can experience adult tooth loss unless the disease is treated or managed successfully.
- True. First, we can recommend a deep cleaning, which uses scaling and root planing to remove plaque from the surface of the teeth and roots. For preventive measures, we encourage patients to brush and flossing daily without exception and undergo routine dental cleanings. A cleaning is the only way to completely remove plaque buildup. If you have any questions please contact our office today.
