MYTH:  Gum Disease is not that common.

FACT:  On the contrary, gum disease is extremely common.  According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, half of adults age 30 and older suffer from some form of gum disease.  Gum disease, an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth, is caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that is constantly forming on our teeth.  Plaque that is not removed with thorough daily brushing and cleaning between teeth can eventually harden into calculus or tartar.

You can find and treat the problem before it gets serious if you know what to look for, so take note if you notice:

  • Red, swollen gums: That’s one of the first signs your gums need attention.  They may also feel tender or painful and bleed easily when you floss or brush.
  • Bad breath: Your breath usually doesn’t change much if you’ve got gingivitis, but it can be a symptom of gum disease.
  • Gums gets smaller: If your teeth look longer than they used to,  chances are your gums are shrinking.  This pulling away is called receding gums.
  • Sensitive teeth: If a sip of a cold drink makes you wince, your teeth may be telling you something.
  • Wiggly or shifting teeth: Gum disease can attack the bones that hold your teeth in place, making them loose or move.  Periodontics is the main cause and it can even change the way your teeth fit together when you bite.

Researchers have linked gum disease to several serious medical conditions such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes.  If you have a periodontal or dental implant condition, it is very important that you receive treatment before it becomes a dental emergency.  At the Havrilla Center for Periodontics & Dental Implants located in Broomall, PA, attending to your comfort and concerns is our first priority.  Our mission is to provide you with the highest quality of periodontal and dental implant care in a warm and friendly environment.