What to Do With Gum Disease

18 Jun 2015

What to Do With Gum Disease

Did you know that gum disease is one of the most pervasive health problems in our society today? The CDC reports that 47% percent of Americans over 30 have some form of advanced gum disease. That’s nearly 65 million people!

But how can something like gum disease be so common in this day and age? The answer, usually, is because a person isn’t practicing as good of oral hygiene as he should. Gum disease is typically caused by built-up plaque and tartar on and around the teeth. By removing this plaque with effective daily oral hygiene practices, it is difficult or impossible for gum disease to develop.

Although it is quite common, not everyone has the same susceptibility to gum disease. People who use tobacco, for example, find themselves at a much greater risk. Other conditions like dry mouth can also make it more likely to develop. In addition, chronic health conditions like diabetes can make it worse once it sets in.

At Pelham Dental Group, we offer two common deep-cleaning procedures used to treat gum disease. Scaling is used to remove built-up tartar below the gum line that causes much of the damage of later-stage gum disease. Root planing is used to smooth the roots of teeth to make it more difficult for plaque to accumulate in the future. Often, these treatments can stop the progress of gum disease.

If you would like to learn more about gum disease, its treatment and symptoms, please call our dental office today.


Pelham Dental Group