Periodontitis, commonly known as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gums that results from a breakdown of the normal architecture of the gingival (gum) tissue and bone surrounding teeth. It is most often seen in adults, but can also occur in children with certain medical conditions or in people with a compromised immune system.
Periodontitis is the most common form of dental disease in adults. It is estimated that nearly half of Americans over the age of 30 have some signs of periodontitis. When left untreated, periodontitis can result in teeth loosening or adult tooth loss.
The disease process begins when plaque is left on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky substance made up of bacteria. If not removed through daily brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into a substance known as tartar. Tartar irritates the gums through inflammation and slowly causes the bone stabilizing your teeth to shrink away. This is a permanent bone loss that cannot be reversed. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist regularly will considerably enhance your odds of successfully preventing periodontitis.
If you notice any signs of gum disease, it is crucial to visit your family dentistry office. If you don’t have one yet, find a good dentist in Huntingdon, PA and go for a check up.
Signs and symptoms of gum disease:
- Bleeding gums during tooth brushing.
- Gums that are red and swollen. Healthy gums should be pink and firm.
- Unpleasant breath or a bad taste in the mouth that persists.
- Gums that are receding.
- Deep pockets that form between the teeth and the gums.
- Teeth that are loose or move.
- Variations in the alignment of partial dentures or in the way teeth fit together while biting down.
Treatment Of Gum Disease
If you have gum disease, your doctor may recommend a series of “deep cleanings” and medicated oral rinses. If initial treatment is unsuccessful sometimes surgery is necessary to prevent further destruction of the gums and bones. The type of treatment you receive is determined by the stage of your condition, how you responded to previous treatments and your general health. In severe cases when your teeth cannot be saved anymore, cosmetic dentistry and dental implants may be the only solutions.
How To Prevent Gum Disease
1. Brush Your Teeth
Brushing your teeth twice a day is recommended. You should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles start to deteriorate. They won’t clean your teeth as well if they’re old and worn out.
2. Floss
Flossing removes food particles and the plaque between the teeth and under the gum line. To prevent gum disease you should floss daily. Please don’t wait until food leftovers get trapped between your teeth to do something about it. Flossing every day removes plaque from locations that your toothbrush can’t reach. Additional options are interdental cleaners, picks, and minor brushes that fit between the teeth. Ask your dentist how to use them not to harm your gums.
3. Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash
Rinse your mouth with antibacterial mouthwash. This battles foul breath and plaque while preventing gingivitis. According to the American Dental Association, antibacterial rinses can help to eliminate germs that cause plaque and gum disease. Consult your dentist to determine which mouthwash is best for you.
Gum disease can also be reduced by making other health and lifestyle modifications, such as:
Quitting smoking. Smoking is not only harmful to your heart and lungs, but it may also destroy your teeth and gums. Smokers are seven times more likely than nonsmokers to develop gum disease, and smoking can reduce the effectiveness of several therapies.
Reduce your stress levels. Stress might make it more difficult for your immune system to battle infections.
Eat a well-balanced diet. Bacteria in your mouth feed with sugars and starches from meals, fueling their production of acids that eat away at tooth enamel. Sugar and starch are abundant in junk food and confectionery. To keep your teeth and gums healthy, stay away from them.
In conclusion, gum diseases can be prevented. Follow the tips we presented in this article and don’t forget that regular dentist visits are crucial.
