February has been designated Gum Disease Awareness Month! Initially launched by the Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry, its purpose is to raise awareness about gum disease and encourage healthy dental habits to prevent it.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), gum disease, also referred to as periodontitis, is the result of infections and inflammation of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth. In the early stages, the gums can become swollen and red, and they may bleed. As it progresses, the gums can pull away from the tooth, which can eventually result in bone and tooth loss. Not only does gum disease affect your mouth, it can affect your body as well. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene are important to ensure everything is healthy.
Periodontal disease is mostly seen in adults, with 47.2% of those aged 30 years and older having some form of it. This risk only increases with age. On top of age, there are many other risk factors that can increase your chance of developing gum disease. One of the primary risk factors is smoking, followed by poor oral hygiene, diabetes, stress, hormonal changes and medications that cause dry mouth.
While gum disease starts in the mouth, when left untreated, it can start affecting many other parts of the body as well. This includes respiratory disease, rheumatoid arthritis, coronary artery disease and diabetes.
Reviews
Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 423 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestJames Nieman
a year ago
The staff are always friendly and very professional. I have been trusting them with the care of my teeth for many years. Proud to say they will last me a long time.
Jeremias Santizo sanchez
a year ago
Feels good
Nancy Harley
a year ago
Was a great experience
Steven E.
a year ago
Always treated well and friendly people at Mortensons. Highly recommended.
Kevin Baskett
a year ago
Excellent service from the front desk to the dentist. Amanda did a great job cleaning my teeth! Thank you all
Rachel Pipes
a year ago
What a great experience!! The front desk staff greeted me immediately upon arrival and were all very welcoming and friendly. Malissa was my hygienist and she was extremely personable and went above and beyond to make sure I was taken care of. 10/10 recommend!!!
Jennifer Fitzgerald
a year ago
These guys make going to the dentist a pleasant experience! If I could give them more stars I would!
Kristy kennon
2 years ago
Always enjoy the personable treatment with with everyone at Mortenson Dental in Shelbyville. They have a great friendly atmosphere and make going to the dentist a relaxing experience. Traci is a great hygienist and gives me the best cleanings!!
Cristy DeShazo
2 years ago
Professional. Friendly staff. Quick schedule. Fast thorough service.
Daniel Chesser
2 years ago
Malissa is the best. She always does a amazing job, and makes me very comfortable.
Diane Personal
2 years ago
Dr Koval and Amanda always provide the best care and are very knowledgeable! The ladies at the front desk are the best!
Debbie Drury
2 years ago
I've always had good experience with the dentists but I had to reschedule a previous appt. and arrived today with my son 12 minutes late today only to be told they would only have time to do an x-ray and exam. It takes five minutes to do the X-ray and five for the exam so I am really perplexed by the horrible service when I usually have to wait 5-10 minutes to be taken back. The only thing I could figure is that they want lednto get their money for that missed appt. I will not be back!!!
Patricia Ringo
2 years ago
Everyone was very efficient and caring.
George Skeeters
2 years ago
As always this practice is top notch! Everyone is pleasant, helpful and always patient. Dr Joe is very talented and explains everything to insure we understand what the plan will be. Wouldn't go anywhere else
Ron Cole
2 years ago
Friendly place to go no what they are doing well impressed as always
Randy Weaver
2 years ago
I love dealing with the folks in this office
Amanda Watson
2 years ago
They were very professional and came up with a treatment plan for my son during the same visit. They will be our family dentist! I highly recommend them!!
Hannah Ritchie
2 years ago
Very friendly staff, took me back early and got everything figured out immediately, answered any and all questions in detail.
MamaBear
2 years ago
The staff was extremely helpful and efficient. I'm grateful for their help and professionalism
Melissa Froman
2 years ago
Fast, friendly, and caring staff!
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