Detecting Gum Disease: Risk Factors and Symptoms

A report published in the Journal of Dental Research last September 2012 recently revealed that one in every two Americans aged 30 and above  has gum problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that approximately 47.2 percent of American adults have periodontal disease – ranging from mild to moderate to severe cases. For residents of Central Georgia and nearby cities, Dr. Vin Bhasin and Dr. Russell G. Eyman are committed to helping clients prevent gum diseases through a wide variety of Macon gum disease treatments.

Gum Disease Risk Factors
While the exact cause of gum disease is heavily attributed to plaque formation, there are certain risk factors which could predispose one to periodontal disease.

1. Age. The older the individual, the greater the likelihood of gum disease occurring. In fact, the aforementioned report revealed that a staggering 70 percent of Americans aged 65 have periodontitis.

2. Genetics. Your genes say it all. There are certain individuals who, no matter how meticulous their oral care routine, are specifically predispose to gum problems. One way of finding out if you are prone to such diseases is through genetic testing. Early detection will surely come a long way.

3. Tobacco Use/Smoking. Chronic tobacco use has also been found out to be heavily linked to gum problems as well as diseases of the heart and lungs.

4. Stress. Since stress makes it very difficult for the body to response to infection, the chances of gum infection is very much high.

5. Medications. Certain drugs such as medications for heart problems, antidepressants and oral contraceptives are known to cause gum problems as part of their side effects.

6. Obesity/Poor Nutrition. Infection is most likely to result from poor nutrition or poor absorption of nutrients.

7. Bruxism. This dental term refers to grinding or clenching one’s teeth. The clenching force often puts extra force on the connective tissues resulting to infection.

Gum Disease Symptoms
The early symptoms of gum disease are often subtle and the problem is often detected during its advanced stage. The following are the warning signs of periodontal disease:

• bleeding gums while brushing, flossing or eating hard food
• red, swollen gums
• persistent bad breath
• receding gum line, making your teeth appear longer
• mouth sores

Dr. Bhasin and Dr. Eyman are highly experienced in the prevention and treatment of gum diseases. If you or someone you know has any of the warning signs or risks factors mentioned, schedule a personal consultation with us by calling 478.923.0232 or by filling out this contact form.