5 Misconceptions about Periodontal Health
Wednesday, March 7th, 2012Some people deal with periodontal disease by trying to deny they have it. Some think they can get away with it without getting any form of treatment – that it just occur inevitably or as part of aging. If you are one of those people, think again. Here are some misconceptions about periodontal health that may help you make a decision to receive the treatment that you need.
1. Periodontal disease is only caused by lack of oral hygiene. This is not true. Pool oral hygiene can undoubtedly contribute to periodontal disease but it is not the only factor that can increase your risk for this condition. Smoking tobacco is one main cause of both gingivitis and periodontitis. Poor diet and stress can contribute as well. But do not abandon your daily oral routine and don’t disregard your dentist’s recommendations because proper hygiene still plays an important role in keeping periodontal diseases at bay.
2. Bleeding gums is not something to be alarmed about. Not true. The occasional bleeding while munching something like a corncob may not be cause for worry but a persistent one is something that needs professional attention. Swollen and red gums that bleed frequently are signals of existence of periodontitis. If your gums bleed frequently, even if you are simply brushing or flossing your teeth, seek periodontitis treatment as soon as possible.
3. Flossing every day is not really necessary. This is a false belief. The only way that you can reach small spaces between the teeth is through flossing. A toothbrush cannot reach those small spaces, which are also a favorite breeding ground for bacteria. Thus, keeping them clean is crucial.
4. The only way to permanently go away from periodontal disease is through surgery. No, this is false. Once a periodontal disease is detected, one does not necessarily have to go for painful surgical treatment. Natural and painless periodontitis treatment is also available. Natural ways to deal with periodontitis abound in the internet.
5. Lost tooth due to periodontitis can no longer be replaced. This statement is not true. If you lose a tooth due to periodontitis, modern dentistry offers several feasible replacement options. One is tooth implant wherein a metal post is inserted into the existing bone structure and a prosthetic tooth is attached. Bridges and partial dentures are also available as options. But if you deal with periodontitis immediately, you may not have to worry about replacing lost tooth.
Periodontal diseases can arise due to many factors which may or may not be under your control. Knowing the truth about this condition can help you understand what you may be facing. Prevention is important but if you are already dealing with this problem, it is not too late. Look for effective periodontitis treatment early on.