Regular checkups and deep cleanings with your Paducah dentist is a must. Why? Because almost 50% of adults over the age of 30 have chronic periodontitis in the US, which is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

What is periodontic disease?

Poor oral health causes plaque buildup, which eventually leads to periodontal disease. So, what’s dental plaque? It’s this sticky substance consisting of bacteria. The bacteria produce acid that breaks down teeth causing cavities.

You need to maintain a healthy oral regimen, like brushing thoroughly to remove plaque buildup and flossing to remove food particles between teeth. This helps you avoid tartar and calculus building up which may lead to gum disease.

What are some symptoms?

  • Swollen gums
  • Gums that easily bleed
  • Bad breath or bad taste that persists
  • Gums pulling away from teeth
  • Loose permanent teeth

Reasons for Periodontic Disease (Gum Disease):

People may develop gum disease for reasons other than poor oral or dental hygiene:

  • Crooked teeth that are difficult to clean
  • Pregnancy
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking and chewing tobacco
  • Certain types of medications
  • Genetics

How do you prevent periodontic disease?

You should have an oral and dental examination at your Paducah dentist’s office every six months. Dr. Ben Johnson at Johnson Family Dental can detect issues early on when it’s easier to treat them, like superficial cavities. You should also get a professional cleaning every six months. Visiting your dentist for deep cleanings twice a year is vital. It removes tartar from dental surfaces and bacteria deep in the gum tissue.

If you need to schedule an appointment, give Johnson Family Dental a call at (270) 554-2432 or CLICK HERE to contact us. Johnson Family Dental is conveniently located at 2913 Lone Oak Rd in Paducah. Our office hours are 8am – 5pm, Monday through Thursday. We hope to be your family dentist!