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We can help you maintain outstanding periodontal (gum) health and treat gum disease in our Eagan dental office.
Did you know that nearly half of all Americans suffer from mild, moderate, or severe gum disease?
Gum disease is a type of periodontal disease, which refers to infections of the tissues around the teeth. That includes the gums, periodontal ligaments, and the bone structures beneath your gums.
Gingivitis is a mild infection in the gum tissues surrounding the base of teeth, and it is the earliest stage of gum disease. Gingivitis symptoms may include swollen, red, and tender gums. Your gums may also bleed after brushing or flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis can spread to affect the rest of your periodontal tissues, causing oral health issues and even tooth loss.
The leading cause of gingivitis and gum disease is plaque buildup, though certain patients may have additional risk factors that put them at a higher risk of developing the infection:
Smoking or chewing tobacco is harmful to your overall health, and especially the health of your gums and oral tissues. Studies indicate tobacco use may be the number one risk factor for severe periodontal disease.
A lack of nutrients can make it harder for the body to ward off infections. Gingivitis begins as a mild infection, but if the body is poorly nourished and unable to overcome it, it can quickly spread and become a more serious oral infection.
Older patients have a higher risk of developing severe periodontal disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 70 percent of Americans over 65 have periodontal disease.
Certain drugs such as antidepressants, heart medications, and oral contraceptives can make your gum tissue more susceptible to infection.
Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other health conditions can interfere with the body’s immune system and result in a much slower healing process for gingivitis or other oral infections.
Grinding and clenching your teeth puts undue pressure on the supportive gum tissues. In turn, weakened tissues are more susceptible to bacterial infections from plaque and tartar.
The best way to prevent gingivitis and gum disease is with an excellent oral hygiene routine that you adhere to every day and with regular visits to Eagan Dental Care for dental cleanings and exams. By paying attention to your teeth and gums at home and attending your professional cleanings, you can help remove plaque and tartar, keeping your gums healthier and stronger.
If you are interested in improving your smile through gum disease treatment, schedule a consultation at Eagan Dental Care or call us at 651-452-5511.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of gingivitis, it’s important to schedule an appointment with Dr. Michael now so that we can help you eradicate any infection before it spreads to other oral tissues. Untreated gum disease and gingivitis can eventually lead to tooth loss and other complications, and we never want our patients to experience that.
Call our dental office today at 651-452-5511. to schedule your exam and gum disease treatment.
Born in St. Paul, Dr. Michael Onyekaba (Dr. Michael) grew up in the northern Minneapolis suburb of Andover. He pursued undergraduate studies at the University of Minnesota, where he received a Bachelor of Arts. After graduation, he moved to Boston, where he earned his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. He is dedicated to providing patients with gentle, professional care. READ MORE
