According to the American Dental Association, 47.2 percent of adults over the age of 30 have chronic periodontitis in the United States. 
Periodontal disease is also the leading cause of tooth-loss in adults, which is why you need to make sure you visit your Glenview, IL, dentist, Dr. Alexander Quezada, for your bi-annual dental checkup.
Periodontal Disease:
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is caused by plaque. Dental plaque is a sticky substance that contains bacteria after someone consumes a sugar-containing meal. When teeth aren't thoroughly brushed, the buildup of plaque on teeth becomes hard tartar.
When tartar, or calculus, accumulates on your gums, you may notice swelling and your gums bleeding easily. If you start noticing these symptoms, this means you're experiencing gingivitis.
Here are some more symptoms to keep a lookout for:
- Bad breath or bad taste that persists
- Gums pulling away from teeth
- Loose permanent teeth
- Gums that are red, bleed easily or are swollen
Reasons for Gum Disease:
Besides plaque, which is a result of poor dental hygiene, there are other factors that contribute to the increased risk of periodontal disease:
- Crooked teeth that can't be cleaned properly
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes
- Smoking and chewing tobacco
- Medications
- Genetics
Prevention:
You should have an oral and dental examination at your Glenview family dentist's office every six months. Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day; brush your teeth after you eat breakfast and before you go to bed with a soft-bristled toothbrush. In addition to brushing, flossing daily, before going to bed, will help remove food debris, and reduce the buildup of plaque.
In addition to oral hygiene, avoid eating sugary foods, like sodas and candy. Resort to a healthier diet, like apples and carrots which help scrape off tartar from the surface of your teeth, and drinking water, which can wash away food particles.
If you want to schedule an appointment with Dr. Alexander Quezada for a bi-annual checkup or because you suspect you may be suffering from gum disease, call (847) 729-2233. His office is conveniently located in Glenview, IL, so don't hesitate to visit your dentist as soon as possible.