Imagine a beautiful picture without a frame. Would it look nearly as nice? And how could you hang it on your wall. Some things are enhanced by frames. You may not realize it, but your teeth are on that list. If your smile wasn’t framed by that symmetrical pink gum tissue, what would it look like? Not only would your teeth be loose, flipping and flopping around in your mouth, but your dental pulp would be visible. The nerves and roots below your gumline are certainly important, but not exactly attractive.  Your Sheridan, WY dentist, Dr. Donald Coon, encourages patients to visit him every six months for preventive dental care. This way, you can avoid infection of those important tissues that are currently framing your beautiful smile.

Periodontal Disease: More Common than You Think

You might think that tooth decay is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. We tend to focus more on cavities when wondering about our dental health. In fact, over 90% of adults in the United States have had at least one cavity in their life time. When it comes to permanent tooth loss causes, however, periodontal disease is the lucky (or unlucky) winner. With approximately 80% of people afflicted with some form of gum disease, this means a bevy of dislodged choppers. Unfortunately, the tooth fairy doesn’t pay money for lost adult teeth. You’re likely the one that will have to have to come out of pocket for tooth replacement costs, however. So, you may be finding yourself asking “how do I stop gum disease from ravaging my mouth and causing me to lose teeth?”

What Causes Gum Disease?

Let’s start with dental plaque. This sticky biofilm is the result of bacteria, acid, and food particles. When plaque clings to the surfaces of your teeth and along your gumline, it can begin to irritate and inflame your gingival tissues. After about 48 hours, plaque hardens into tartar. When you don’t go in for your six month cleanings, your infected gums can get worse and worse. Gum recession and periodontal pockets begin, allowing more bacteria to gather and proliferate. If you notice that your gums bleed when you brush your teeth and you are overdue for a checkup, call your Sheridan, WY dentist as soon as possible. If gum disease is treated in the earliest stages, you shouldn’t have to worry about severe dental health consequences in the future.

Visit Your Sheridan, WY Dentist

To learn more about treating and preventing gum disease and tooth loss, schedule a consultation with your Sheridan, WY dentist by contacting our 82801 dental office at (307) 672-7567. Located in the 82801 are, we welcome patients from Sheridan, WY and all surrounding communities