How Young is Too Young for Periodontal Disease?

Quick Summary

Periodontal disease can begin in your 20s, and untreated gum disease may cause premature gum recession and bone loss even before age 40. Pregnant women face increased risk of premature birth when gum disease is present, and wisdom teeth areas are especially vulnerable to infection.

Key Takeaways

• Schedule regular professional cleanings and checkups if you have a family history of gum disease, as genetic predisposition increases your risk regardless of age.
• Ask your dentist to evaluate your wisdom teeth and discuss removal if they show signs of trouble, since these areas are especially prone to developing gum disease.
• If you are of reproductive age, prioritize oral health screenings with your periodontist to reduce the risk of premature birth linked to gum disease.
• Seek early treatment for gum disease symptoms in your 20s and 30s to prevent bone loss and gum recession that can occur before age 40.

As with any fairly common health condition, there tend to be many misconceptions about periodontal disease. What causes it? Is flossing really necessary and important? (hint: yes it is!) Who is most likely to develop gum disease and when? Is periodontal disease really something young people need to worry about?

Typically associated with aging, perhaps one of the most common misconceptions about gum disease is that it does not affect the young. While there are several factors that tend to play a role in overall oral health and influence whether a person is likely to develop periodontal disease at some point in their life, such as lifestyle, genetics, and dental hygiene practices, the reality is that no one is immune to gum disease and the associated health risks.

Facts About Gum Disease and Young Adults

The onset of periodontal disease can often begin long before a person reaches retirement age. In the earlier stages, many patients in their 20s may not experience symptoms, which can lead to putting off treatment for gum disease, as well as complications in other areas, such as pregnancy. Although the average 25-year-old’s main concern may be how bright and symmetrical their smile looks to the naked eye, dental cosmetics are just one part of the overall equation for a beautiful and healthy smile.

• Gum disease in pregnant women can lead to premature births
• Wisdom teeth and the surrounding areas can be especially prone to gum disease, and should be carefully monitored and treated accordingly
• If left untreated, periodontal disease and the resulting inflammation can lead to more serious health conditions, like heart disease and diabetes
• If left untreated, gum disease can lead to premature gum recession and bone loss, even in patients under the age of 40

Tips for Protecting Yourself From Gum Disease at Any Age

Know your risks. People with a family history of gum disease can be more likely to develop it in the future. Regular professional check ups and cleanings, as well as good oral hygiene habits at home are especially important for people with a pre-disposition to periodontal disease

Ditch the wisdom teeth. If wisdom teeth show signs of trouble, it is best to have them removed in order to avoid potential complications in the future

Reproductive aged women should pay special attention to their oral health and gum disease risks, in order to avoid prenatal complications and potential premature birth

Contact Expert Los Angeles Periodontists today!

If you have been diagnosed with gum disease or have a family history of the condition, contact  board-certified periodontists Dr. Alexandre-Amir Aalam and Dr. Alina Krivitsky at the Center for Advanced Periodontal and Implant Therapy in Brentwood by calling (310) 826-8242 today.

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