Welcome back to our blog page here at Boulder Dental Designs! Everyone who has ever been treated by the one and only Dr. Montoya raves about his professionalism, excellent dentistry skills, and incredibly gentle hand. Our dental clinic is also widely known for being full of Boulder’s friendliest staff. Don’t believe us? Schedule an appointment for a dental service today. Instead of simply searching “best dentist near me,” come to Boulder’s best dentist: Dr. Montoya at Boulder Dental Designs. We’d love to get you in for a cleaning, a filling, cosmetic dentistry, TMJ services, or any other dental services. Contact us today!
As Americans, on the whole, we have fairly decent oral hygiene. Compared to other places in the world, our teeth are positively stunning. Even though one-third of us don’t brush our teeth enough, half of us aren’t going to the dentist often enough, and two-thirds of us aren’t flossing enough. On top of all of that, about 31 percent of Americans have untreated dental issues that are simply getting worse every day.
One of the common dental issues that is plaguing Americans, even the good people of Boulder, is gum disease. Gum disease is a slow-moving enemy that will not make its presence known right away but will rather worsen gradually so that you’ll eventually find it impossible to ignore. Most people who suffer from gum disease have either not been brushing and/or flossing enough, haven’t visited their Boulder dentist on a regular enough basis, or, as in rare cases, have unlucky oral health genes. In today’s blog, we’re going to take a close look at what causes gum disease, what can happen if it’s left untreated, and the best answer if you’re currently dealing with gum disease. Continue reading below to learn more.
What is Gum Disease?
In short, gum disease is simply an infection of gum tissue that is usually the direct result of poor brushing and flossing habits. When plaque is allowed to remain on or in between the teeth, it eventually hardens and starts to affect the gums. In its early stages, gum disease is called gingivitis. In it’s more advanced stages, it’s known as periodontal disease and it can be quite serious if it’s allowed to get to this point or worse.
Gum disease can be accompanied by the following symptoms: bad breath, bleeding or swollen gums, pain when chewing, loose teeth, sensitive teeth, or receding gums. There are certain risk factors that make people more susceptible to developing gum disease such as smoking, diabetes, and hormonal changes in girls and women.
Gingivitis
When plaque and bacteria are allowed to remain on teeth, the effect on the gums can lead to gingivitis. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and it’s usually classified by sore, swollen, or bleeding gums when one brushes or flosses. Since gingivitis is simply the first stage of gum disease, many people don’t even realize they have it. Furthermore, gingivitis can even be reversed with the adoption of decent and responsible oral hygiene. However, if gingivitis isn’t treated with a cleaning from your Boulder Dentist, it could worsen and turn into something much more severe.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is what occurs when gingivitis isn’t treated and is allowed to get worse. This condition is not only accompanied by sore, swollen gums, it’s also known to cause gums to pull away from teeth. Additionally, people with severe periodontal disease can actually lose one or more teeth because the gums have started to loosen their grip on the teeth due to the buildup of plaque and bacteria.
In addition to the danger of losing one’s teeth, periodontal disease can also cause other significant health issues in the body. It has been known to possibly attribute to heart disease, stroke, premature births, diabetes, respiratory problems, and more. If you knew that you could be putting your life at risk when you don’t brush enough, floss regularly, or visit your Boulder dental clinic on a regular enough basis, wouldn’t you do something to change your routine?
Solutions to Gum Disease
If you don’t yet have gum disease, you definitely don’t want to get it. Make sure that you brush, floss, and visit your best Boulder dentist, Dr. Montoya, regularly. If you’re simply dealing with gingivitis, the good news is that you have options for helping your own situation immensely! Our dental clinic in Boulder can help you get your oral health back to a good place. If it’s been a while since you visited the dentist, chances are, you’re in dire need of a cleaning, at the very least.
If you think that you may be dealing with periodontal disease, fear not. Though your condition is serious, it’s no reason to avoid the dentist, rather, this is definitely the time to schedule your appointment with Dr. Montoya.
Visit the Best Dental Clinic in Boulder
No matter what kind of dental work you’re needing, Boulder Dental Designs is here to help you! We can help you with your gum disease, fill a cavity, schedule your root canal, or even talk about cosmetic dentistry! Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
