Gingivitis is the last word that you want to hear when you go to your regularly scheduled dental appointment with your East Greenbush Dentist, but unfortunately, Gingivitis is more common than you think.
According to the New York Times, more than 75 percent of Americans suffer from Gingivitis or Periodontal Disease, with the majority of those affected not even aware that they have it.
Oral health is the number one cause of gum disease. Your Dentist in East Greenbush, Dr. J. Craig Alexander will tell you that not brushing twice and flossing once a day will encourage the build-up of plaque and bacteria.
Periodontal disease and Gingivitis thrive in environments where acid is prevalent. Having a sweet tooth isn’t just bad for your waistline. If you eat sugar and foods that contain high fructose corn syrup, simple sugars, fructose, or any other foods that convert to sugar, you could be setting yourself up for Gingivitis. If you must indulge, make sure to rinse with water after eating or drinking anything containing sugar.
If you have restorations that are not properly contoured, set up an appointment today with your Dentist in East Greenbush. Bad crowns and fillings could have gaps that allow plaque and debris to become trapped contributing to Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease.
Abnormal tooth structures could increase your risk of Gingivitis and Periondontitis. Talk to your East Greenbush Dentist who can examine your teeth and gums for tooth abnormalities. If you are at risk, Dr. Alexander will be able to recommend treatments that will reduce the risk of Gingivitis.
Wisdom teeth, also known as your third molar, are extremely susceptible to bacteria, which will eventually lead to Gingivitis. Wisdom teeth are usually mature and removed by the time you reach your early twenties. Your Dentist in East Greenbush advises that you have your wisdom teeth checked regularly as Gingivitis can occur in impacted or buried wisdom teeth as well as wisdom teeth that have already broken through the gum line.
Although Gingivitis and Periodontal disease can affect children and adolescents, it is most predominant in adults after the age of 35.
According to your East Greenbush Dentist, female hormones can affect your gums making women especially susceptible to Gingivitis. Gingivitis that is influenced by hormones will appear in some teenage girls as well as pregnant women. Birth control medication can also be an occasional side effect. Gingivitis can also flare up a few days before menstruation when progesterone is especially high. Your gums can also become inflamed during ovulation. Progesterone causes inflammation from dilated blood vessels blocking collagen repair.
Having regular checkups with your Dentist in East Greenbush is the only way to prevent Gingivitis. If you have swollen or red gums and bleeding after brushing or flossing, schedule a check up with Dr. Alexander in East Greenbush today.