Four of every five Americans suffer from gum disease, but certain people are at greater risk than others.
Here's who:
- Anyone 65 or older
- Tobacco users
- The obese, and those with poor diets
- Pregnant women
- Anyone under great stress, especially those who clench or grind their teeth
- Those taking certain drugs, like anti-depressants, oral contraceptives, and some heart medicines
- Those with such systemic diseases as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and cardiovascular disease
- Children of perio-prone parents
The more of these risk factors you have, the greater your odds of falling victim to periodontal disease.
What are the symptoms?
- Bad taste in your mouth
- Bad breath
- Red or swollen gums
- Tender or bleeding gums
- Pus around teeth and gums
- Brown spots on tooth surface
- Gums shrinking away from teeth
- Loose teeth
- Sensitive teeth or pain when chewing
- Teeth or dentures fitting differently when biting
Don't take it lying down! Know your risk, then fight back.
