Top Gum Disease Myths Debunked
Posted on 11/14/2025
One of the most common dental diseases affecting millions of people is periodontal or gum disease. Despite being a common ailment, this condition is often shrouded in mystery, preventing patients from seeking treatment and causing confusion about how to deal with it. As an organization championing dental health here at West Gate Dental, we have taken it upon ourselves to highlight common myths about gum disease and the facts you need to know to maintain a healthy smile.
Myth 1: Bleeding Gums are Normal
Many people think that it is natural for their gums to bleed when brushing or flossing, but this is far from the truth. Bleeding gums are, in fact, one of the earliest signs of gum disease. This condition is often caused by plaque buildup that leads to inflammation and bleeding. When ignored for too long, bleeding gums can develop into periodontitis, which will require more complex and costly treatment.
Myth 2: Gum Disease is Rare
Since most people do not understand how gum disease manifests, they tend to think that it is a rare and uncommon occurrence. The truth is that over 40% of adults have some form of gum disease; moreover, 30% of the general population is genetically susceptible to it. Believing that this condition is rare can cause people to ignore early signs, preventing early detection, which can be key to treatment.
Myth 3: You Only Get Gum Disease if You Fail to Brush
While poor oral hygiene is one of the causes of gum disease, it is not the only cause. Other factors that may contribute to the development of this condition include stress, smoking, medical conditions (like diabetes), and your family's genetic history. This means that even with good oral hygiene, one may still develop gum disease, so preventive dental care is crucial to minimize these risk factors.
Myth 4: Having Gum Disease Means Losing Your Teeth
Gum disease may increase the risk of tooth loss, but this does not mean it always will. In fact, with proper periodontal treatment and daily preventive care, many patients will keep their natural teeth for life. The fear of tooth loss often discourages patients from seeking treatment, but timely treatment can save both your teeth and gums.
Myth 5: Gum Disease is Linked to Cavities
Some serious dental health issues, like cavities, are often linked to gum disease, so people think having one of these conditions is connected to the other and vice versa. However, gum disease and tooth decay are two different conditions. You can have cavity-free teeth and still develop gum infections, or you can have cavities with no gum disease. Regular check-ups reveal the exact dental conditions you are suffering from.
Get a Comprehensive Dental Exam
Just as with the rest of your body, regular dental exams are crucial for preventing the development of severe dental conditions. Are you looking to get a comprehensive dental exam? West Gate Dental has the best dentists in Lincoln, NE, who provide expert care. With qualified professionals at every step of your dental procedure, our organization ensures you get the services of the best family dentist in Lincoln, NE, for you and your loved ones. Visit us today!