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Have you ever brushed your teeth and noticed a little bit of blood in the sink? That is a common sign of gum disease but one that most people overlook. Dr. Mungcal is a trusted Los Angeles dentist who has helped many patients address gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems. He helps patients learn more about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for gum disease. Here’s an easy way to remember it: Healthy Gums Don’t Bleed!
According to a recent study from the CDC, 47.2% of adults aged 30 years old and older have some form of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease increases with age. 70.1% of adults 65 years old and older have periodontal disease.
Gum disease starts with bacteria in the mouth. We all have it! The bacteria can be found on the plaque on your teeth and begins to feed on that plaque/build-up, causing it to swell. That is when most individuals notice that their gums will bleed while brushing. That leads to gingivitis – inflamed gums. If not addressed at this stage, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis (gum disease) as the gum begins to pull away from the teeth, forming an open pocket that continues to damage both the gums and the teeth.
Plaque is the typical cause of gum disease; however, it can also be caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause, illness such as diabetes, medications that decrease the amount of saliva in the mouth, and family history.
Gum disease can begin and progress without causing pain or any apparent signs. However, specific symptoms often point to a form of gum disease, including:
If you notice one or more of these symptoms, call your dentist for an oral exam. Your dentist will do an exam to check for bleeding or swelling of the gums, tooth movement, proper alignment or sensitivity, and the health of your jawbone.
If you do have gum disease, it is essential to know that it can be treated. However, the earlier gum disease is caught, the easier and faster the treatment will be.
Our staff is thoroughly equipped to get you started on the road to total oral health. For more information about gum disease, call Downtown Dental at 213-863-9464.