Is This Disease Affecting You?

We often speak about the importance of your oral health as well as your overall health. Many patients don’t realize this, but there is actually a link between your oral and your overall health. This is one of the reasons we are so passionate about routine hygiene examinations. If decay and other conditions are left untreated, you may start to experience severe health complications and issues. There is one important oral condition that affects approximately half of American adults and often remains undetected. Are you suffering from this common condition? Continue reading to learn more.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, also commonly known as gum disease, occurs when the gums and soft tissues surrounding the teeth become inflamed or infected. Unfortunately, it often remains undetected due to the lack of obvious warning signs. When tooth decay is present, there are obvious warning signs such as severe discomfort. There are minor warning signs that may indicate periodontal disease, such as:

• Swollen or red, puffy gums
• Gums that feel swollen
• Bad breath
• Gums that bleed easily

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease often develops when the teeth are not cared for properly. We only see you in the office a few times per year with the bulk of your oral care remaining in your hands. When teeth are not brushed for two minutes twice daily and dental floss is not used daily, periodontal disease can develop. When you visit our office for a routine hygiene examination, we can detect any changes to your gums and recommend immediate treatment. If periodontal disease remains untreated, it can not only lead to complications such as tooth loss, it can also increase the risk of developing serious health complications. Untreated periodontal disease can lead to issues such as heart disease, an increase in blood pressure, diabetes and complications with pregnancy such as premature labor.

If you are experiencing any of the warning signs mentioned above, be sure to contact our office located in West Chester, OH to schedule an appointment. If you have any questions about how to properly care for your teeth and mouth, we would love to help you!