Gum Disease - 5 Myths Keeping You From Getting Discount Dental Work

By Susan Braden
Published Aug 06 2010

If you are avoiding discount dental care for this disease (also known as gingivitis) because of what people have told you regarding treatment, you may want to think again. Here are five misconceptions about periodontal (gum) health that may help you make the decision to receive the treatment you need. Find out the truth about healthy gums and teeth and take the necessary steps to maintain your pearly whites.

Gum disease is only caused by lack of oral hygiene.

False. Poor oral hygiene can definitely contribute to the problem, but it’s not the only factor that can impact your risk for this condition. Smoking and other forms of tobacco use greatly increase your chances of developing both gingivitis and the more serious periodontal disease periodontitis. A poor diet and stress can contribute as well. Some people simply have it in their genes. Don’t abandon your daily oral routine, though, and don’t discount your dentist’s recommendations, because proper hygiene still plays an important role in warding off gingivitis.

Flossing daily is not necessary.

False. Flossing every day can help clean between small spaces your toothbrush can’t reach. Those small spaces are also a favorite breeding ground for bacteria, so keeping them clean is vital. However, a mere 13.5% of Americans floss daily, a recent survey reports.

It’s not a big deal if my gums are bleeding.

False. The occasional trickle while munching on a corncob may not be cause for worry, but consistent instances may need professional attention. Swollen, red gums that bleed frequently could indicate the presence of periodontal disease. If your gums frequently bleed when you floss or brush your teeth, see a dentist who takes a discount dental plan that will help you keep the cost down.

The periodontist office will be scary.

False. Periodontists are dental specialists who are experts at treating gum disease to make patients feel better. They have received several years of additional training following dentistry school and are specialized in preventing, diagnosing and treating the problem. They use innovative tools and technology to provide the best care possible while doing their best to make sure your visit is comfortable. If laser therapy, ultrasound technology, biomarker measurement and digital radiography sound scary to you, just know that they are used to make the procedures you need as effective and painless as possible.

If I lose a tooth in the process, it is irreplaceable.

False. If you lose a tooth due to periodontitis, though you may not save the original tooth, modern dentistry offers several viable replacement options, many of which are eligible for discount rates. One of the most effective is known as a tooth implant. A metal post is inserted into your the existing bone structure, and a prosthetic tooth is attached once the rod has bonded with the bone. Other options include bridges and partial dentures.

Despite its ominous reputation, gingivitis can arise due to many factors which may or may not be under your control. Prevention is essential, but if you are already dealing with this disease, it’s not too late. Knowing the truth about this condition can help you understand what you may be facing. Periodontitis can lead to more costly issues like heart disease or diabetes, so it is important to catch it early to protect both your financial health and overall wellness. Find a quality discount dental plan to help reduce the cost of treatment, and see a periodontist as soon as possible.