Do You Have Periodontal Disease? Self-Evaluation Test

Periodontal Disease, also known as gum disease is very common.  Most people experience some form of this in their lifetime.  The stages of Gum Disease range from Gingivitis, which is reversible and has mild symptoms, to Advanced Periodontal Disease, where there is bone loss and tooth loss.  Your Scottsbluff NE dentist has all the tools to help treat this disease.  Professional dental care will play an important role in this battle.  Let’s take a look at some ways you can evaluate yourself at home in order to better protect your oral health.

Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss?

Bleeding gums are a sign of inflammation.  If your gums are bleeding, then they are not healthy.  It also means that there may be an infection present.  Plaque is a matrix of bacteria that attacks your gums and bone causing gum disease.  You may only have a mild gingivitis, but it could be a sign of a more advanced stage of gum disease.  You dentist can evaluate this and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Do you have bad breath? 

Bad breath can be a sign that your mouth is unhealthy.  When plaque is not removed daily by brushing and flossing, it starts to build up on the teeth and gums.  It can harden and become tarter, also known as calculus, which is harder to remove and can cause an odor to form.

Do you have a family history of gum disease?

Does anyone in your family have gum disease?  Genetics, or the genes that are passed on to us from our family, can play a role in gum disease as well.  Some of the bacteria in our mouths can be a result of this family history.  So, ask around and find out if your family members have battled gum disease.  It may even help you to prevent it for yourself.

If you answered yes to any of these questions, your cosmetic dentist in Scottsbluff NE will help by exploring your symptoms and providing the right treatment to get you back on track.  Call to schedule your appointment today.