As a whole, September can seem rather humdrum. Many people see it as the first month of Fall and nothing more. Truthfully, though, September has another name – National Gum Care Month! As such, it’s a time to learn about your gum tissue and how best to protect it. Fortunately, your Temple dentist can help you honor this special occasion. To that end, here are four interesting gum disease facts you should know to keep your whole mouth safe.
It’s a Common Cause of Bad Breath
True enough, you can get bad breath from “stinky” foods and not brushing your teeth. However, those aren’t the only causes of halitosis; another one is gum disease.
You see, gum disease is a bacterial infection. That means it’ll put off a smelly odor as large amounts of related bacteria gather. From there, you can quickly start to suffer from chronic bad breath. That being the case, you may need to see a dentist to fix the root of your problems.
It’s Not an Adult-Only Problem
Some people think gum disease only affects middle-aged adults and seniors. In reality, though, this idea is a common misconception. The truth is that anyone – even kids – can get a gum infection.
Periodontitis may not appear much in kids, but chronic gingivitis is another story. The latter is just as common an issue for kids as cavities are. So, ensure your kids get regular dental visits, limit their sugar intake, and brush and floss daily.
It Can Be “Silent”
It’s easy to assume gum disease always comes with obvious signs. (Perhaps bleeding or swelling gums, for example.) Still, that’s not always the case.
Often enough, gum disease is a “silent” condition. Only when the infection reaches advanced levels can you notice changes in your mouth. Until then, you may not detect the relevant symptoms.
All that being said, attending regular dental exams is vital. Doing so lets your dentist see what you might be missing.
It Can Spread Via Saliva
Many assume that gum disease can’t be spread. Since you can’t “catch” tooth decay or cavities, the same must apply to gum infections, right?
Unfortunately, this assumption is faulty: gum disease can be pretty contagious. That’s only natural, as bacteria directly cause it. If the relevant microbes spread from your mouth to another, someone else could catch your gum problem. Therefore, sharing food or kissing when you have gum disease is a bad idea.
By knowing these interesting facts about gum disease, you can better protect your oral health. So, memorize them now to honor National Gum Care Month!
About the Author
Dr. Richard Fossum is a highly qualified dentist based in Temple, TX. Having earned his DDS from the University of Texas Dental Branch – Houston, he’s an expert in preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments, as well as emergency dental services. The man is also a well-regarded member of the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. Currently, Dr. Fossum practices at his self-titled clinic and is reachable on his website and by phone at (254)-778-3900.