In short, yes, people suffering from edentulism (having lost all of their natural teeth) should be concerned about gum disease. Good dental hygiene is essential at all ages and whether or not you have all of your natural teeth
If you have experienced losing teeth as an adult, it is possible you have already been affected by gum disease. Periodontitis occurs when a person develops gingivitis and it goes unchecked for a long period of time. It can lead to significant tooth loss.
Signs of Gum Disease
Whether you are edentulous or have all of your natural teeth, gum disease can be spotted from the early stages, and there are some warning signs which can indicate that you are at risk. Red and swollen gums are a good indication of gums which are at risk of gum disease. If your gums become swollen and red throughout the day, it may be an early sign of gum disease. Another warning sign that your gums might be in detriment is bleeding and discomfort after brushing, flossing, or eating.
Whenever there is discomfort or bleeding from doing these daily activities on a consistent basis, it is crucial to address the issue immediately. An indication of advanced gum disease is pus or sores in your gums. If you are suffering from pus or sores, it is important to call us immediately and schedule an appointment because you may be at serious risk.
Preventative Care
Though you may have no teeth, it is still necessary to keep your mouth clean. We always recommend brushing the gums with a soft bristled toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste. It is also beneficial to use a mouthwash after brushing to make sure your mouth is as clean as possible. If you have dentures, it is important to rinse them after every meal to stop food build up.
The Mugford Center professionals also recommend thoroughly cleaning your dentures with a toothbrush and toothpaste at least once a day as they can breed bacteria from being used. It may also be necessary to soak dentures overnight in a mild cleaning solution overnight.
While at home care of your mouth and gums is a great step in preventing gum disease, it is still important to visit our office once every six months for more thorough cleanings. By coming in once every six months, we will be able to assess any issues you are having or look for early signs.
For more information on gum disease, or to schedule an appointment, contact our Crofton, MD front office. We also encourage our patients in outlying areas such as Baltimore, Annapolis and Washington, DC to call and schedule an appointment so that we may further discuss your dental hygiene needs.