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Periodontal (Gum) Disease Awareness Month

February 20, 2018.TruAssure.0 Likes.0 Comments

Periodontal (Gum) Disease Awareness Month

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a leading factor in tooth loss and is also associated with other chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. The main cause of periodontal disease is harmful bacteria found in the plaque that accumulates on teeth. The disease can range from a mild stage, known as gingivitis, to a more severe stage, known as periodontitis. Prevention, and in some cases reversal, of the disease is possible by maintaining good oral health habits and visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

According to the American Dental Association, the following risk factors contribute to the development of periodontal disease, and the following warning signs may help identify the condition:

  • Tobacco (smoking or smokeless)
  • Systemic diseases like diabetes
  • Medications like steroids, specific types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs and some calcium channel blockers
  • Poor fitting bridges
  • Crooked teeth
  • Defective fillings
  • Pregnancy or oral contraceptives
  • Genetic predisposition to gum disease

The warning signs of periodontal disease include:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Red, swollen or tender gums
  • Receding gums
  • Constant bad breath or bad tastes in your mouth
  • Loose or separating permanent teeth
  • Changes to your bite and pain while chewing
  • Poor fitting dentures

It’s important to take steps to help lessen your risk for gum disease. Regular good oral health habits like twice daily brushing and once daily flossing in addition to regular visits to your dentist can help protect your smile and minimize your risk for gum disease.

TruAssure’s Max Savings, Choice and Choice Plus plans for individuals and families offer three cleanings per year, giving you more opportunities to have your dentist screen you for gum disease and practice preventive dental care.

This Gum Disease Awareness Month, if you haven’t seen your dentist in a while, make an appointment. In the meantime, our video can help you take care of your teeth and gums at home.

* All TruAssure dental plans, other than Basic and Preferred dental plans, are offered in association with the DenteMax Plus dental network arrangement, which includes participating dentists from the DenteMax, United Concordia and Connection dental networks. TruAssure Basic and Preferred dental plans for both group and individual members are offered in association with the DenteMax dental network.

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