Gum Disease Affects 47% of Adults—Are You at Risk?

Preventive Dental Care With Dr. Maria Benefield in Atlanta, GA

You brush, you floss—so you must be safe from gum disease, right? Not necessarily. According to the CDC, 47% of adults over age 30 have some form of gum disease, and many don’t even know it. Why? Because gum disease is often silent in its early stages—until permanent damage has already been done.

At Cosmetic & General Dentistry with Dr. Maria Benefield in Atlanta, GA, we help patients catch and treat gum disease before it causes tooth loss or impacts their overall health. Our team of dental professionals, including experienced dental hygienists, plays a crucial role in early detection and ongoing care for gum disease. Regular professional cleaning and removing plaque are essential parts of preventive dental care to stop gum disease before it progresses. Whether you’ve noticed bleeding gums or just want peace of mind, now is the time to take action.

Call our dental office in Atlanta at (404) 255-7541 or schedule your appointment online. We welcome patients from Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Roswell, and surrounding communities.

What Is Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)—and Why Is It So Common?

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, starts as gingivitis—inflammation caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease and is reversible with proper care. Dental plaque is the primary microbial accumulation responsible for gum disease. If left untreated, it can progress to a more advanced stage called periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth, and the bone begins to break down.

Periodontitis is a more advanced and often irreversible form of gum disease, sometimes referred to as advanced gum disease or severe gum disease, which can lead to severe forms of tissue and bone destruction. Chronic periodontitis is a widespread and severe form of periodontal disease that can have systemic health implications. As the gums pull away, periodontal pockets form; deeper pockets (greater than 3 mm) are difficult to clean at home and increase the risk of tooth loss.

Over time, this can lead to:

• Gum recession
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Chronic bad breath
• Tooth loss
• Damage to gum tissue

It’s more common than you think—and often painless in its early stages. That’s why regular dental checkups are essential. 

Are You at Risk for Gum Disease? Understanding Risk Factors

Gum disease doesn’t affect only one type of person. You may be at higher risk if you:

• Smoke or use tobacco
• Have diabetes or other chronic conditions
• Are pregnant or going through hormonal changes
• Have a family history of gum disease
• Struggle with plaque buildup or inconsistent oral hygiene
• Have not had a dental cleaning in over six months

Even if your teeth feel fine, gum disease could be progressing below the surface. A quick, painless dental visit can detect it early—and potentially save your smile.

What Happens During a Gum Health Checkup at Our Atlanta Dental Office?

At your routine dental visit with Dr. Benefield, we’ll:

• Examine your gums for signs of inflammation or bleeding
• Measure gum pockets to detect bone loss
• Take digital X-rays (if needed) to check the jawbone and roots
• Clean away plaque and tartar
• Perform scaling and root planing to remove plaque and bacteria from root surfaces
• Use root planing to smooth root surfaces and help prevent bacteria from reattaching
• Create a personalized plan to manage or reverse early-stage gum disease

We also identify and manage affected teeth to prevent the progression of periodontal disease and preserve your oral health.

Our goal is to catch problems early, when they’re easiest and least expensive to treat.

The Cost of Ignoring Gum Disease: Risk of Tooth Loss

Gum disease isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it can cause serious (and costly) damage if left untreated.

Here’s a look at how the numbers stack up:

And remember, gum disease is the #1 cause of adult tooth loss—and tooth loss comes with major expenses, from implants to bone grafting and long-term maintenance.

Gum Health Is Linked to Whole-Body Health

Gum disease doesn’t stop in your mouth. It’s linked to a wide range of health problems, including:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Diabetes complications
• Pregnancy issues (like preterm birth)
• Respiratory infections

Systemic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions, can also influence the progression and severity of gum disease.

Warning Signs: When to See a Dentist

Knowing when to see a dentist can help you prevent periodontal disease from advancing. If you notice any of the following warning signs, it’s time to schedule a dental checkup:

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Loose or sensitive teeth that weren’t an issue before
• Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
• Tender gums or discomfort along the gum line
• Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Painful chewing or difficulty eating
• Visible changes in your gum line, such as receding gums

Call (404) 255-7541 to learn more about the warning signs from our Atlanta general dentist.

Oral Hygiene: Prevention Is Easier Than Treatment

The best way to fight gum disease? Stay consistent with preventive care. Dr. Benefield recommends:

• Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing every day
• Avoiding tobacco products
• Eating a balanced diet low in added sugar
• Being aware that poor nutrition can increase your risk of gum disease and impair healing
• Seeing your dentist every six months—or more frequently if you’re at high risk

Preventive visits cost far less than restorative treatments—and they give you peace of mind.

Lifestyle Changes for Healthier Gums

Simple lifestyle changes can go a long way in helping you prevent gum disease and maintain healthy gum tissues. Here’s how you can support your oral health every day:

• Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day and clean between your teeth daily to remove plaque from all tooth surfaces.
• Avoid tobacco products: Smoking increases your risk of periodontal diseases and slows healing.
• Eat a balanced diet: Choose foods rich in vitamins and minerals—like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—to support healthy gums and overall wellness.
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks: Reducing sugar helps prevent plaque buildup and protects your teeth and gums.
• Manage stress and psychological factors: High stress levels can weaken your immune system, making it harder to fight off gum infections.
• Control health conditions: If you have diabetes mellitus or other health conditions, work with your healthcare provider and inform your dentist about your medical history for tailored advice.
• Schedule regular dental checkups: Professional cleanings and exams help remove plaque, catch problems early, and keep your teeth and gums in top shape.

Affordable Gum Disease Care in Atlanta

Worried about the cost of dental care? We make care accessible and transparent. At our Atlanta dental office, we:

• Accept most dental insurance plans
• Offer financing for periodontal treatment
• Provide clear pricing with no surprises
• Help you make the most of your benefits before they expire

Whether you need a cleaning or more advanced care, we’ll work with you to create a plan that fits your health goals and your budget.

Don’t Wait Until It Hurts—Get Checked Today

Nearly one in two adults has gum disease. The good news? It’s treatable and preventable—especially when caught early.

Call our Atlanta dentist at (404) 255-7541 or schedule online to book your next checkup. We proudly serve patients from Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Dunwoody, and nearby areas. Protect your smile—and your health—starting now.