7 Surprising Facts About Gum Disease

Gum disease is a fairly prevalent health problem. You may have heard about it from your dentist during an appointment or watched television advertising for gingivitis-fighting products. You undoubtedly have a basic knowledge of gum disease, but you might be interested in learning more to safeguard your own teeth and gums.

Here are the seven crucial facts regarding gum disease that everyone should be aware of:

1. Approximately 50% of adult Americans have gum disease 

Most individuals are aware that gum disease is a widespread issue, but many are unaware of just how common it actually is. According to statistics, the most serious form of gum disease, periodontitis, affects 50% of individuals over the age of 30 in either a mild, moderate, or advanced stage.

Although these are only estimates, many dental experts think that closer to 80% of American adults suffer from some type of gum infection.

2. Gum disease can affect children too 

Although the majority of data on gum infection prevalence is based on the adult population, gum disease can affect people of all ages. Even young children who are only developing their first set of permanent teeth might get gum disease.

Children are less likely to develop severe periodontitis, although persistent gingivitis is almost as common as cavities. Like cavities, gingivitis may be avoided by you as apparent ensuring your child visits the dentist frequently, doesn't overindulge in sugary snacks, and practices proper dental hygiene.

3. Even the most rigorous dental hygiene cannot fully protect from gum infection

Even while having a solid at-home dental routine and going to the dentist frequently are important, gum disease cannot always be totally prevented. Even with perfect oral hygiene practices, several lifestyle and health factors might put you at high risk for getting gum infection.

Tobacco use, alcoholism, diabetes, immune system diseases, drugs, and even a hereditary predisposition are all frequent risk factors. Even so, the way you take care of your teeth and gums still matters a lot, and if gum disease does strike, you'll be far better equipped to recover from it by taking a proactive approach to your dental health. 

4. Infection-causing bacteria behind gum disease are spreadable 

The belief that gum disease is contagious is untrue, but the bacteria that causes inflammation is spreadable. Saliva can be used as a vehicle for infectious bacteria to transmit infection and, eventually, cause inflammatory damage. This implies that sharing food or eating utensils, or kissing someone who has an active gum disease infection can allow bacteria to spread. 

It's crucial to get treatment immediately if you or a loved one develops gum disease and to limit exposure for other family members.

5. Gum disease is quite common among pregnant women 

Expectant moms are highly advised to visit their dentist frequently while pregnant. A woman is far more likely to develop gum disease during pregnancy due to the multiple hormonal and lifestyle changes that take place. Up to 75% of women experience gestational gum disease, which can range from mild cases of gingivitis to severe cases of periodontitis.

6. Periodontal disease causes more adult tooth loss than untreated tooth decay

Most people associate tooth loss with decay and cavities. However, not many know that gum disease in its later stages is the most prevalent culprit behind missing teeth. 

7.  Chronic periodontitis has a strong connection to heart problems and diabetes

Diabetes and cardiovascular disease are two extremely dangerous conditions related to chronic periodontitis. Although there is considerable debate about how these health problems are related, it is certain that they worsen one another.

It is crucial to take preventative measures against periodontal disease or to seek timely treatment if you have already been diagnosed with gum disease if you have diabetes, or cardiovascular disease.