More than 65 million Americans have some form of gum disease — and that number now includes former Major League Baseball All-Star Alex Rodriguez.
Like many others who are diagnosed with gum disease, Rodriguez was not expecting the findings.
"Looks can be deceiving," he said after his diagnosis. "I just recently went to see my dentist and not thinking anything about gum disease. And the dentist tells me the news, and then I come to find out over 65 million Americans have this gum disease."
46% of U.S. adults 30 and over have some form of gum disease. Rodriguez, 47, falls into that category. “I was honestly surprised. I take good care of my teeth — brushing and flossing daily," the man known as A-Rod added. "It can happen to anyone."
A-Rod is right. Anyone can develop gum disease, also called periodontal disease. Seek treatment as soon as you notice symptoms, because while swelling, puffiness or bleeding of gums doesn't seem like an emergency, they mean an infection is already present. Without treatment that infection will only grow worse, causing gums to pull away from teeth and eventually causing tooth loss.
Additionallly, periodontal disease has been linked to increased risk of diabetes, stroke, heart conditions, Alzheimer's and more. It's hard to think of a better reasong to get a periodontal assessment and treatment that can stop gum disease in its tracks. Luckily early intervention can stop gum disease before it becomes that serious and modern technology cvavn help repair the damage. At Holmdel Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we have several advanced treatments that can actually rebuild gums and bone if disease does reach that critical stage.
We may not all have Gold Glove awards and a World Series championship, but we all have teeth and gums. And instructions from a big leaguer to take care of our health. Come see us at Holmdel Periodontics & Implant Dentistry. We'll always give you All-Star treatment, no referral necessary.
