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6 Debunked Myths About Gum Disease You Should Stop Believing In

By November 11, 2020 - 6:13am

Gum disease is a gum inflammation that can cause gum bleeding, swelling, redness, and other severe symptoms. Even though it is a quite common condition, many people still don’t know much about it. That’s why many myths and misconceptions about gum disease are so popular even today.

It is important to understand that gum disease is a quite dangerous issue. It can cause severe complications and affect your well-being. In this article, we have gathered six debunked myths about gum disease you should stop believing in.

1. Gum disease affects only smokers
Indeed, smokers are more prone to gum disease since tobacco by-products tend to mix with dental plaque and this mixture contributes to bacteria overgrowth. These bacteria cause inflammation and other symptoms of gum disease.

But the reality is that many non-smokers can develop gum disease. People who don’t maintain proper oral hygiene and consume a lot of sweets are also prone to gum disease. That’s why a healthy diet and proper oral hygiene are essential for oral health.

2. Gum disease is not dangerous
Some people think that gum disease is only bleeding are swollen gums that don’t require treatment. But the aforementioned symptoms are only slight signs of gingivitis (the initial stage of gum disease). If left untreated, gingivitis can progress and cause more severe symptoms.

When gum disease becomes advanced (periodontitis), it can cause loose teeth, gum recession, and even tooth loss. It is essential to start gum disease treatment right after the occurrence of the first symptoms to avoid serious complications.

3. Gum disease always causes severe symptoms
Unfortunately, gum disease can develop asymptomatically or cause minor symptoms for a long period of time. For example, you can notice a light gum bleeding after tooth brushing. Due to the fact that most people think that light gum bleeding can be considered normal, you can also neglect this sign of developing gum disease.

The main problem is that gum disease can develop without pain and other alarming symptoms. That’s why many people visit the dentist’s office with an advanced condition that is much more difficult to manage. Timely and proper treatment can help prevent the aggravation of gum disease and ease its symptoms.

4. Gum disease can be treated with proper oral hygiene
Even though proper oral hygiene can help prevent the development of gum disease, it still can’t cure it. Indeed, it is extremely important to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly when you have gum disease but this condition can be treated only by a dentist.

Some people avoid flossing since it can trigger bleeding. But that reality is that flossing helps remove food particles and dental plaque that contribute to bacteria overgrowth. Additionally, it also helps strengthen gums and improve blood circulation.
5. Gum disease affects only gums
Gum disease is deemed an oral issue that mostly affects gums and teeth. But the main problem is that gum disease is also linked to many other conditions that are not connected with the oral cavity. People who have gum disease can also have an increased risk of:
- Heart disease
- Some cancers
* Stroke
- Diabetes
- Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia
- Pregnancy complications like preterm birth and low birth weight

The bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream through the affected gums and lead to many health issues. That’s why gum disease treatment should be performed as early as possible to minimize the risk of the aforementioned complications.

6. Gum disease can be easily cured
Indeed, early gingivitis can be successfully treated. But when it comes to advanced gum disease that has already caused gum recession and loose teeth, treatment can only help manage your symptoms and prevent their aggravation.

It is important to understand that without proper treatment, periodontitis can lead to gum and teeth loss. In this case, treatment will be aimed at gum and teeth restoration. If you have gum disease and your teeth become loose, treatment can prevent their loss and other complications.

The bottom line
It is extremely important to pay sufficient attention to your overall health. Many health issues, including gum disease, can be successfully treated in the early stages. To prevent the development of gum disease, you need to follow a healthy diet, maintain proper oral hygiene, and don’t skip regular dental exams.

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