Between search engines like Google and a seemingly endless amount of content on social media platforms like YouTube, you can learn about pretty much every subject in a matter of minutes. That said, there is a lot of misinformation out there, so it’s important to be able to separate truth from fiction. With this in mind, keep reading to learn four common myths about gum disease.
Myth #1: Gum Disease Is Rare
Quite the opposite! In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently shared that roughly 50% of American adults over the age of 30 struggle with this oral health problem. That’s why it’s so important to schedule a dental checkup every six months and keep an eye out for common warning signs of gum disease between visits, like tender and swollen gums.
Myth #2: Bleeding Gums Is Normal
The truth is that bleeding gums is one of the most common symptoms of gum disease. So, if your gums bleed when you floss or brush, you should call your dentist ASAP. Depending on the severity of your symptoms and how long they have persisted, they may even recommend a same-day visit. After all, the longer the infection is left alone, the more time it has to progress and wreak havoc on your oral health.
Myth #3: If I Get Gum Disease, I Will Lose My Teeth
Tooth loss is a consequence of advanced gum disease. That said, it isn’t a foregone conclusion. In fact, if the necessary care is provided in the early stages, your dentist can save your teeth! For this reason, we strongly recommend keeping an eye out for abnormal dental symptoms, like pain when biting down and tender gums. If that happens, don’t take the “wait and see” approach. Instead, call your dentist ASAP.
Myth #4: Gum Disease Treatment Hurts
Thanks to laser dentistry, no scalpel or sutures are necessary! Plus, sedation dentistry is available for patients who struggle with a fear of needles, a sensitive gag reflex, dental-related anxiety, or head/neck/jaw pain in the treatment chair. To put it simply, you don’t have to worry – your dentist will go the extra mile to make the process of restoring your healthy smile pain-free.
About the Practice
Our team at Dental Center of Lakewood is here to help our patients with everything from routine checkups to gum disease treatment. Not only that, but we’re here to make the treatment process smooth and stress-free, which is why we offer sedation dentistry, we welcome several financial solutions, and we’re available five days a week. If you have any questions for us about gum disease treatment, or you’re ready to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (214) 823-5253.