It’s estimated by the American Dental Association that 47% of adults over 30 years of age, have some degree of gum disease. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control also report that 64% of people over age 65 have moderate to severe gum disease.
Hardened tartar at the gum line is the primary cause of gum disease. However other risk factors, like tobaccos use, alcohol consumption, and medical conditions like dry mouth or diabetes also increase your chances of developing gum disease.
Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease. It often results when plaque and residual food particles are not effectively removed during the twice daily brushing and flossing of your teeth. These substances then harden into tartar, thus exposing your gum tissues to a constant bacterial presence, which leads to inflammation.
If gingivitis is not resolved through improvements in oral hygiene and dental cleanings, it can easily advance into the more dangerous form of gum disease known as periodontitis.
Periodontitis causes your gums to recede from the base of your teeth forming pockets of infection deep down at the root. In time, this can even lead to a loss of structure in the bones that anchor your teeth in your mouth.
Continuing research has also found a relationship between periodontitis and medical conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
If you are concerned that you might be developing gum disease or periodontitis, you should contact Fox River Periodontics, PC at 630-232-7400 to schedule an appointment to explore your treatment options.