What do you know about gum disease? The average patient knows it's an oral disease; however, periodontal disease isn't simply a dental disease—it affects the entire body. In fact, having untreated cases of gum disease makes patients more susceptible to developing other ailments throughout their bodies.
To explain this disease in greater detail, Dr. Marco Cueva, your Plano periodontist shares some facts about gum disease with his patients.
What You Should Know about Gum Disease
- Gum disease is oftentimes painless. Most patients have the impression that gum disease is a painful oral disease, when in fact, it's usually painless. The best way to remain vigilant of gum disease is by visiting your Plano periodontist regularly. This way, should the beginnings of periodontal disease arise, the doctor can start treatment immediately.
- Bleeding gums isn't normal. Have you heard the expression: watch out for the pink in the sink? The pink residue means your gums have been bleeding, which isn't normal. Bleeding gums points to greater issues that require the care of a professional. If notice your gums bleed during daily brushing, don't hesitate to contact Dr. Cueva.
- A sour taste could mean gum disease. Bad breath, or halitosis, affects everyone from time-to-time, especially in the morning. Yet, having persistent bad breath or a sour taste in your mouth might mean gum disease. Since the more severe cases of periodontal disease tends to generate pus, it leaves behind a sour taste in the mouth alongside incurable bad breath.
- Proper teeth cleaning won't necessarily prevent gum disease. Roughly 30% of the population is genetically predisposed to gum disease. This means that even with a sound teeth cleaning regimen, those patients can still develop gum disease. To learn if you have this predisposition, consult with Dr. Cueva.
- Flossing helps ward off gum disease. One of the best ways to fight gum disease is by flossing. Gum disease develops from periodontal pockets created from an excess of plaque and tartar build-up. By flossing, you remove the plaque to prevent tartar (which is hardened plaque) accumulation in the first place. Thus, preventing gum disease.
Periodontic Excellence Offers Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease only progresses without proper treatment; therefore, if you have symptoms that may indicate gum disease, take care to consult with Dr. Cueva. With his expertise, you can find relief from your oral ailments and start healing. To schedule an appointment with your Plano periodontist, call us at (972) 390-9944. Also, visit our website for services, patient information, to read more about the team. We look forward to treating patients from Allen, Plano, McKinney, Frisco, Garland, Richardson, and the neighboring cities.
