Periodontal disease aka gum disease
Periodontal Disease is the infection and inflammation that affects the bone & tissues that support our teeth. It’s also known as gum disease.
A wide variety of bacteria are normally found in one' mouth. When certain types of bad bacteria outgrow the other good bacteria's, this starts the process of periodontal disease.
When our gums are healthy, the gum tissues tightly fit to each of our teeth. When we have a gum disease, our gums are pulled away from our teeth. As the periodontal disease gets worse, the bones & tissues that support our teeth gets damaged. Over time, our teeth may fall out and need to be removed.
Treating Periodontal disease in the early stages can help prevent tooth loss.
What is the connection of Gum disease to other health issues?
Gum disease has been linked to many other diseases in our body. People with heart problems & diabetes are more likely to get gum disease. High stress & Strokes also can be related to gum diseases. Researchers are still studying these associations.
Warning Signs of Gum DiseaseIf you notice any of the signs below, see your dentist. However, you can have gum disease and not notice any of these warning signs. That is why regular dental checkups are very important.
• gums that bleed when you brush or floss
• gums that are red, swollen, puffy, or tender
• gums that no longer hug your teeth tightly
• bad breath that doesn't go away
• pus between your teeth and gums
• feeling that your teeth are loose
• a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• a change in the way your partial dentures fit
What Causes Gum Disease?Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that is always forming on your teeth. Bacteria that live in the plaque can make your gums become red, puffy and swollen. When plaque is left on your teeth and gums, it hardens. Hardened plaque is called tartar (TAR-ter) and can only be removed when your teeth are cleaned in the dental office.
It generally costs much less to keep your teeth and gums healthy than to wait until you have a problem that needs to be treated. These healthy habits can help:
• Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and for 2 minutes each time.
• Eat a healthy diet and limit snacks and sugary drinks.
• Clean your teeth with floss or another inter-dental cleaner every day after meals to remove plaque & food from areas your toothbrush can’t reach.
• Your dentist or hygienist may recommend using mouthrinse or other products.
• Visit your dentist regularly.
Don't use tobacco!
According to one of the Best Dental Clinic in Jaipur, If you smoke, chew, or dip tobacco, then it is very important you quit. Using tobacco in any form slows down your healing and raises your chances of getting gum disease again or it getting worse if you already have it. Talk to your dentist or doctor about ways you can quit.
Read about harmful effects of Tobacco on Gums!
Anyone can get gum disease, but there are things raise your risk of getting it. These include:
• Not taking care of your teeth and gums.
• Using tobacco of any kind.
• Clenching/Grinding your teeth.
• Many medications.
• Diseases that affect the whole body - such as diabetes and HIV infection.
• Old Age.
• Stress.
• Pregnancy, use of birth control pills, or changes in female hormone levels.
• Family history of Gum problems.
• Passing the bacteria that causes gum disease through saliva.
Visit your dentist regularly to prevent yourself from the onset of any of such problems
