Some Myths and Facts About Gum Disease

Public awareness on the importance of healthy gums is lacking and many people still think that it is normal for gums to bleed or that teeth fall out with advancing age. Strong healthy gum is the key to retaining teeth for life. Gum disease can start early in life and is almost always painless in the early stages. The good news is that gum disease can be prevented or can be treated if detected early.

1

Normal for gums to bleed when brushing teeth.
MYTH.
Strong gums should never bleed and should be firm and pinkish, or can be treated if detected early.
2

Teeth fall out with advancing age.
MYTH.
Strong healthy gum is the key to strong firm teeth.
3

Longer looking teeth with advancing age.
MYTH.
Sign of receding gum caused by advancing gum disease.
4

Picking your teeth with toothpick will widen the space between teeth.
FACT.
This happens especially if you have gum disease.
5

Orthodontic patients are prone to gingivitis.
FACT.
Proper cleaning and plaque removal from teeth and along gum line may seem difficult with braces. But keep at it and with practice, it will get easier.


Gum Disease and Its Link To Other Systemic Diseases

Gum disease shown to be linked to several systemic disease like:

1

Cardio-vascular disease
2

Pancreatic cancer
3

Diabetes
4

Pre-term childbirth

Some High Risk Individuals Who Are More Prone To Periodontal Disease

1

Orthodontic patients. People who orthodontic appliances are not only susceptible to gingivitis, but also to sores, ulcers, dental plaque build-up and tooth enamel demineralization during treatment.
2

Women during pregnancy
3

Those afflicted with diabetes, leukemia, stroke, HIV/AIDS
4

Physically and/or mentally handicapped
5

Post-head and neck radiotherapy patients
6 Smokers