Gum disease is one of the most common and most serious oral health conditions in the entire world. It can start quietly, manifesting as just a little redness, bleeding, or swelling in your mouth, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious problems like tooth loss, bone damage, and even issues that affect your overall health. However, the good news is that gum disease is actually largely preventable, and routine dental visits play a major role in this. Better yet, your dental insurance can make this much more affordable and stress-free! Here’s what you need to know.
Gum Disease Is a Big Deal
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and supporting structures of your teeth. It starts out as a condition called gingivitis, which is its earliest stage, and causes inflammation and bleeding gums when brushing. If it’s left to progress into periodontitis, a more advanced stage, it can lead to gum recession, loose or shifting teeth, or even total tooth loss.
Even worse, studies have linked advanced gum disease to serious systemic health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and an increased risk of stroke, to name a few. This means that protecting your gums isn’t just about protecting your smile; it’s also about safeguarding your entire body!
Gum Disease Is Preventable with the Right Approach
The best way to stop gum disease is to prevent it from developing in the first place. Daily brushing and flossing at home are essential, but professional care is equally important. During your routine dental checkups and cleanings twice a year, your hygiene team will remove plaque and tartar along the gumline that cannot be cleared away with your toothbrush at home. Your dentist will also check for early signs of gum inflammation or recession that may indicate gum disease. If something is beginning to develop, the treatment plan can be put together to put it to a halt.
Use Your Dental Insurance to Avoid Gum Disease
Skipping routine dental visits might seem like a way to save you money, but the truth is, it can end up costing you much more down the road—especially if you end up suffering from gum disease. Keeping up with these visits lets you prevent dental emergencies, avoid costly restorations, and preserve your natural teeth longer while avoiding gum disease. And this is where your dental insurance enters the picture.
Your dental insurance benefits typically renew each year, and if you don’t use them, they tend to expire at the end of the year. These benefits also usually include coverage for preventive care! Scheduling your check up now means that you’re making the most of your coverage, protecting your oral health, and avoiding issues like gum disease before they’re allowed to get serious. Think of it as an investment in your health and future smile. While gum disease may be serious, it’s also preventable, and with the right approach and smart use of your dental insurance, you’ll be able to keep smiling happily and healthily.
About the Practice
Under the talented leadership of Dr. Teresa Knott, our team here at Town Center Dental proudly serves the needs of patients and families in Garland and the surrounding North Texas area. We offer a wide range of services, including gum disease treatment—and we are also dental insurance-friendly! If you have any questions about the blog or concerns about your dental insurance plan, or if you’d like to schedule an appointment at our office, please feel free to reach out online or by phone for more information or assistance. Telephone: (972) 530-5200.