Surprising Facts about Gum Disease and Why You Should Seek Treatment in Toronto

Unless you are in the dental profession, gum disease and gum disease treatment may not be something you have spent too much time thinking about. However, gum disease is much more common than most people think; some estimates indicate that up to 70% of adults have experienced some form of gum disease in their lifetimes. The good news is that, with gum disease treatment, most cases of gum disease are reversible. Here are some other surprising facts about gum disease of which you might not be aware.

Gingivitis is Actually Gum Disease

Most people have heard of gingivitis, and many have probably had it. However, you may not know that gingivitis is actually a form of gum disease. Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, progresses in stages, and gingivitis is the earliest stage. Regular dental cleanings can help catch gingivitis before it develops into more severe periodontal disease. At the earliest stage, treatment typically includes a thorough clean that reaches below the gum line, all the way to the root of the tooth, to remove all the built-up bacteria.

Gum Disease Can Cause Pregnancy Complications

A dental check-up is usually recommended to women who are trying to conceive or have recently become pregnant. Pregnant women are already at greater risk of developing gum disease, and if left untreated, gum disease can have negative effects on unborn babies, including premature birth and low birth weight.

Morning Breath May Actually be a Sign of Gum Disease

If your morning breath is causing you to immediately run to the bathroom to brush your teeth, you may be suffering from more than just bad breath. Persistent bad breath is a sign of gum disease and combined with other symptoms, including swollen gums or bleeding while brushing or flossing, is a sure sign that is it time to be seen by a dental professional for gum disease treatment.

Gum Disease Doesn’t Only Affect the Elderly

There is a stereotype that gum disease is one of those things that primarily affects the elderly. However, gum disease is non-discriminatory; it can affect anyone who has neglected their oral hygiene or regular dental visits.  Some people may even have a hereditary predisposition to gum disease. Even small children have been known to suffer from gum disease.

Gum Disease Can Be Contagious

While gum disease itself isn’t contagious, it’s a result of external factors and poor oral hygiene, and the bacteria that causes the gums’ inflammatory response to gum disease can be passed through saliva. If the bad breath hasn’t put you off, you may want to avoid sharing utensils, food, and beverages with a person suffering from gum disease.