The formal name of advanced gum disease is periodontitis. It’s one of the leading causes of tooth loss, and affects nearly half of Americans over the age of thirty. But advanced gum disease can be treated at Staten Island Dental Care, and does not have to result in the loss of teeth.
What do your gums do?
The soft tissue in your mouth, like skin, has a key job. It protects the roots of your teeth. It also provides a barrier for the connective tissues and ligaments that hold your teeth in their sockets. Plus the alveolar bone in which your teeth are anchored.
What causes gum disease?
Bacteria are always present in the oral cavity. When it is left on the teeth and gums, it turns into plaque. Plaque is a coating of bacteria on your gums and teeth. Plaque accumulates if it is not removed by rinsing, brushing, and flossing. If plaque builds up the gums can start loosening. When plaque hardens, it is called tartar or calculus. You can’t brush away tartar with your toothbrush. You need to have a professional dental cleaning.
What are signs of gum disease?
- Tender gums
- Bad breath
- Receding gums
- A change in the color of gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain and tenderness
- Pus between teeth and gums
- Teeth that appear longer
- Growing spaces between teeth
- Changes in your bite
How does gingivitis threaten your health?
Gum disease increases your risk of:
- Stroke
- Heart disease
- Heart attacks
- Diabetes
- Cancer
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Osteoporosis
- Asthma
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Low infant birth weight
At Staten Island Dental Care we focus on gum disease. Services include general and restorative dentistry. Call us to schedule an appointment today!
Contact Staten Island Dental Care – Dr. Frederick Hecht:
347-695-4380
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1520 Richmond Ave
Staten Island, New York
10314
