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Gum disease often isn’t found until it’s advanced. But here’s the good news: Proper care can often prevent it and keep your mouth healthy.
Gum disease – also called periodontal disease – is a worry for more than one-in-three people 30 and older. Take care of your mouth so you’re not one of them.
In its early form, professional care and good daily care may be able to reverse gum disease. Follow these basic tips to stop it:
Gum disease causes gums to redden and bleed. It can also damage gum tissue and bone, causing teeth to loosen and fall out.
Information is power. The more you know about gum disease, the better prepared you are to combat it. Here are a few important takeaways:
Studies show a link between gum disease and heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity and high-risk pregnancy.
Gum disease is the leading cause for tooth loss, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Smoking is the main reason in more than half of all cases in adults.
Watch for these symptoms:
Schedule an appointment with your dentist to talk about gum disease. Together you can choose the best approach to care for your teeth and gums.
Be sure to check your plan benefits for information about dental coverage. For more information, visit bcbsok.com. Log in to Blue Access for MembersSM and go to the “Coverage” tab. Then select “Dental.”
Originally published 6/7/2016; Revised 2021, 2023