Busting 5 Common Myths About Gum Disease

Other than cavities, gum disease is one of the most prevalent oral health issues people struggle with. However, as long as you know how to prevent and address the situation early on, you’ll be able to maintain a strong and healthy smile. That said, you may have heard rumors about this condition that can easily make you misinformed. Read on to learn about five of the most common gum disease myths and why they aren’t true!

Myth #1: Bleeding Gums Are Normal

If you brush your teeth and notice your gums bleeding, you should consider visiting your dentist for treatment. This condition can be an indication of an underlying oral concern, such as periodontal disease. To avoid any further complications, schedule a dental checkup so that your dentist can identify the root cause and develop a custom treatment plan to fix it.

Myth #2: Gum Disease Is Rare

Gum disease is not a rare condition. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 50% of adults over age 30 experience some kind of gingivitis. For this reason, you’ll want to regularly check for any warning signs like bleeding gums, redness, irritation, and inflammation. If you notice any of these symptoms arise, be sure to notify your dental team as soon as possible.

Myth #3: Infected Gums Will Recover By Themselves

One of the biggest misconceptions is that oral health problems will heal on their own. Unfortunately, this is often not the case, and you’ll need to seek out professional dental care to address these concerns, including gum disease. By holding off on treatment, you may end up allowing the problem to worsen, which will require more costly procedures to fix it.

Myth #4: Gum Disease Equals Tooth Loss

Although advanced gum disease can result in tooth loss, you don’t need to lose your teeth from this condition. If detected and addressed during the early stages, then you can effectively avoid further complications altogether. A major part of your treatment will involve implementing a solid oral hygiene routine, which will restore and improve your gum tissue. You’ll also want to stick to a well-balanced diet and schedule checkups and cleanings with your dentist every six months to preserve your pearly whites.

Myth #5: Gum Disease Is Unpreventable

Contrary to popular belief, there are certain ways you can avoid developing gum disease. These methods include:

• Brushing for two minutes twice a day
• Flossing daily and rinsing with mouthwash frequently
• Avoiding poor oral habits, such as smoking
• Keeping a vitamin-rich diet with low amounts of sugar content
• Scheduling checkups and cleanings twice a year

Now you’ll be able to tell myth and fact when it comes to gum disease. If you notice any symptoms or have any questions about this condition, feel free to contact your dentist today!

About the Author

Dr. Chris Johnson received his dental degree from the Texas A&M College of Dentistry. He also regularly pursues continuing education to expand his expertise and skills. He offers a wide range of high-quality and comprehensive services, including dental checkups/cleanings and periodontal therapy. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call 713-229-8100.