About 47% of adults 30 and older have some form of periodontal disease. Dentists look for signs and symptoms, including receding gums, loose teeth, bad breath, and painful gums. If your dental team detected early signs of periodontal disease, there are treatment methods to restore your oral health. However, some myths about this oral condition might be overwhelming, so consult the guide below to dispel some common misconceptions. 

Periodontal Disease Misconceptions, Dispelled

1. Symptoms Are Often Obvious

Gum disease can go unnoticed for months. Symptoms aren't always evident and they include darkened gums, swollen and tender gums, bleeding around teeth, and constant bad breath. Severe symptoms include receding gums that form deep pockets and loosening or shifting teeth. Schedule an appointment with a dentist if you recognize these signs. 

2. Only Your Mouth Is Affected

While the mouth is the first area affected by gum disease, this illness can affect the entire body. The illness can affect your cardiovascular health by entering your bloodstream through the gums. Respiratory and coronary artery disease are common, while existing diabetes could be at risk due to issues controlling sugar in the blood. 

3. No Cavities Means No Periodontal Disease

Cavities and periodontal disease are unrelated because the bacteria that cause cavities are not the same as the bacteria that cause gum disease. Streptococcus mutans causes cavities while porphyromonas gingivalis causes periodontal disease. A dentist will perform dental swabs to determine which bacteria is present in the mouth.

 If you notice early signs or suspect you might have gum disease, you should contact Kevin L. Ragsdale, D.D.S., P.C., for a checkup and teeth cleaning. With over 30 years of experience, the Dalton, GA-based dentist can assess your oral health needs and create a customized treatment plan. The dentist can also provide root canals, dental implants, teeth whitening, and additional restorative and cosmetic dentistry services to improve your quality of life. Visit the dentist's office online to view new patient forms, and call (706) 275-6631 for an appointment.