September is here, so you might get caught up in its special occasions. (Labor Day would be especially relevant due to the country’s recent “hot labor summer.”) Still, this month has more than Fall festivals and three-day weekends. These thirty days also represent National Gum Care Month! As such, now is the time to learn about gums and their role in oral health. So, here are four exciting gum disease facts to know in honor of September’s arrival!
It Affects Half of All U.S. Adults
You might think gum disease isn’t that widespread. Truthfully, though, it happens to be a rather prevalent condition, and statistics back up this grim reality.
The CDC concludes that 50% of U.S. adults over the age of 30 have gum disease. Other dental authorities, meanwhile, believe the number is closer to 80% of the U.S. adult population. The latter idea would mean almost all grown Americans have gum infections.
It Can Cause Tooth Loss
Per its name, gum disease can seem like an issue that only affects gums. However, this assumption doesn’t bear out. The condition can actually cause tooth loss as well.
In fact, losing teeth from gum disease is common. Extensive research shows that the infection causes more tooth loss cases than cavities. As for why, the reason is simple: infected gums tend to recede and erode your jawbone. In doing so, they can cause teeth to lose the support needed to stay in place.
It’s Linked to Serious Conditions
Often enough, most don’t view gum disease as life-threatening. The truth of the matter, though, is that a gum infection puts you at risk of severe health problems.
To be more specific, gum disease can trigger life-threatening illnesses. One is heart disease, as bacteria from infected gums can reach your heart valves via the bloodstream. Other research shows gum disease can make you more likely to develop Alzheimer’s and dementia.
It Can Be Hereditary
Even if you practice impeccable oral care, you may not be fully safe from gum disease. Recent studies suggest one’s genes can make you susceptible to it.
The conclusion comes from work done by the American Academy of Periodontology. According to the latter group’s scholars, gum disease really may run in your family. You should thus consult a dentist about gum infections if your family members tend to get them.
Hopefully, these interesting gum disease facts will help you take the appropriate measures to protect your mouth. You’d then be helping honor this year’s National Gum Care Month.
About the Practice
Benchmark Family Dental is based in Copperas Cove, TX. Led by Dr. Daniel Caraveo, our practice happily gives each patient the top-tier dental care they deserve. We thus offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments, as well as emergency oral procedures. Naturally, then, our team provides quality fixes for gum disease and related conditions. If you’d like more information or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (254)-547-4866.