Saskatoon Dental Group is a locally owned, full-scale Saskatoon dental clinic offering general dentistry services. At Saskatoon Dental Group, we are dedicated to offering excellent care to our amazing patients who are like family to us. We are grateful to treat whole families in Saskatoon across multiple generations and have a multicultural team speaking multiple languages. In Canada, February is Gum Disease Awareness Month. Today, we are to talk about Gum Disease.

Gum Disease Awareness Month

February is Gum Disease Awareness Month, and it is an important opportunity to raise awareness about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for gum disease. The goal of this month is to educate people about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting their dentist regularly to prevent and treat gum disease.

Gum Disease, What Is It?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious oral health condition that affects the gums and the bones that support the teeth. It is caused by a build-up of plaque and tartar, which can lead to inflammation, bleeding, and eventually, tooth loss. According to the Canadian Dental Association, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults but the disease isn’t limited to only adults.

How Does It Start?

Gum disease typically begins as gingivitis, which is a mild form of the condition that causes inflammation and bleeding of the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is a more severe form of the condition that can cause damage to the bones and connective tissue that support the teeth. Symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen, and bleeding gums, receding gums, bad breath, and loose or shifting teeth.

Gum disease is caused by a build-up of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth, and tartar is the hardened form of plaque that forms when it is not removed by regular brushing and flossing. The bacteria in plaque and tartar produce toxins that can irritate and inflame the gums, leading to gum disease.

Risk factors for gum disease include poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes, and certain medications. People who have a family history of gum disease are also at a higher risk of developing the condition.

In conclusion, gum disease is a serious oral health condition that affects the gums and the bones that support the teeth. February is Gum Disease Awareness Month, and it is an important opportunity to raise awareness about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for gum disease. The goal of this month is to educate people about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting their dentist regularly to prevent and treat gum disease. If you suspect you may have gum disease, it is important to visit your dentist at Saskatoon Dental Group as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis and treatment. Book your appointment today! They are always welcoming patients looking for a new dental family. If you would like to book a checkup or if you have any dental questions please do not hesitate to reach out to our team.

See you soon!

The Saskatoon Dental Group Team

 

Gum Disease and the words that go with it.