The World Health Organization estimates that 80 percent of all adults will experience some degree of gum disease in their lives. Whether it’s redness, inflammation, or bleeding gum tissue, you might have some of the symptoms of periodontal disease and never make the connection.
To learn facts about the real impact of the disease, and how it affects so many people, continue scrolling.
1. There’s No Age Limit
Young, old, or somewhere in-between—there is no age limit in contracting periodontal disease. It’s true that seniors are more likely to contract it than other age groups due to weakened immune systems. However, children can also be subject to the bacteria that cause gum disease.
2. Periodontal Disease Is Contagious
When bacterial plaque builds up on your teeth, it can spread gum disease through your entire mouth. This means that you can potentially pass periodontal disease to another person via contact with your saliva.
3. Good Oral Hygiene May Not Be Enough
There are other factors besides good oral hygiene when it comes to gum disease. Lifestyle choices like tobacco use and alcoholism as well as genetic predisposition and conditions like diabetes, and immune system disorders can all affect your oral health
That being said, brushing and flossing will drastically reduce your likelihood of contracting it and will increase the effectiveness of any treatment.
4. Pregnant Women May Develop It
The hormone changes that take place inside a pregnant woman’s body can wreak havoc on their immune system. According to the CDC, nearly 60 to 75 percent of pregnant women have or contract gingivitis.
This is an early stage of periodontal disease that occurs when the gums become red and swollen from inflammation.
If you’re an expectant mother, going to the dentist should be added to your routine. Studies show that mothers with healthy teeth and gums tend to have children with the same levels of oral health as they grow.
5. Gum Disease Leads to Tooth Loss
The final stage of gum disease generally leads to a loss of teeth. As the gums get red and inflamed, the membrane that holds your teeth in place becomes weak and loose. If left untreated, this will cause the tooth to fall out.
So, as you can see, gum disease’s impact is significant, affecting a large swath of the population, yet it often remains a silent and overlooked oral health issue. Continue perfecting your oral health routine, and don’t hesitate to visit your dentist if you start to show symptoms. Early intervention leads to successful management.
About the Author
Dr. Omid Mehdipour believes in a world populated by friendly people and beautiful smiles. He will always go the distance for his patients, treating them like family. Dr. Mehdipour received his dental doctorate from the University of Colorado School of Dentistry and then completed an Orthodontic Certificate at Howard University in Washington, DC. To schedule an appointment at Anaheim Dental & Orthodontics, call (714) 520-8888 or visit the website to explore available services.
