If you don’t know much about gum disease, you like have a lot of questions you need answered to understand it better. Fortunately, at StarImage Dentistry, we’ve compiled our patients’ most frequently asked questions and provided answers below. Find out the answers to your most burning gum disease questions.
closeup of woman with shiny lips

How Can I Tell If I Have Gum Disease?

It’s tricky. Gum disease can arrive painlessly and without apparent symptoms, one of the reasons we encourage regular exams. However, if you experience any of these common symptoms, don’t wait for your recare appointment to see us.

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums, or other pain in your mouth
  • Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating
  • Gums that are shrinking or pulling away from your teeth
  • Persistent bad breath

Is It Ever Too Late For Treatment?

No, and please don’t avoid treatment because you are embarrassed. There are many excellent techniques we can use to bring gum disease under control, including laser gum treatmen. Otherwise, you could lose teeth, supporting jawbone and ligaments that will affect your appearance, speech, and ability to eat.

Is Gum Disease Hereditary?

Yes, some people can be up to six times more susceptible, but gum disease can also be transmitted in families through kissing, blowing on food, and sharing food or utensils. Anyone can be especially vulnerable at certain stages of life: adolescence, pregnancy, and mid-life, at the onset of diabetes or other inflammatory diseases, and during times of stress.

What are the Health Risks of Gum Disease?

Without treatment, gum disease can increase your risk of several different medical conditions. One recent study showed a link between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Some studies indicate that gum disease increases one’s risk of heart disease, heart attacks, diabetes, stroke, and rheumatoid arthritis. Gum disease can even affect one’s mental health.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Some of the top causes of gum disease include poor oral hygiene and smoking. However, age, genetics, and underlying conditions such as heart disease or diabetes can also play a role in who gets gum disease.

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?

One of the best ways to prevent gum disease is first and foremost by preventative dentistry and brushing and flossing regularly. We recommend brushing at least 2x per day and flossing 1x per day. You can also incorporate mouthwash into your routine to kill even more bacteria in your mouth. Also, make sure never to skip a dental exam.

If you’re overdue for a dental exam, need gum disease treatment, or have additional questions about gum disease, please contact our Wichita Falls dental office by calling 940-322-2252 today!