Brushing and flossing can often seem like a monotonous task and because of that, the importance of it can easily be taken for granted. The truth is that it has never been more important do both of these things in order to avoid gum disease and the risks that gum disease place on our overall health. Approximately 75% of Americans suffer from some form of gum disease, whether they realize it or not. Gum disease has been linked to serious health complications, which can then lead to various dental problems that are often avoidable.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is actually called periodontal disease in the dental community. It is mainly caused by bacteria from plaque and tarter build up. Gum disease can be caused by the following things:
• Tobacco use
• Clenching or grinding your teeth
• Certain medications
• Genetics
Types of This Disease Include:
Gingivitis - This is the beginning stage of gum disease and is often undetected. At this stage, the disease is still reversible.
Periodontitis - Untreated gingivitis can eventually lead to the development of this form of gum disease. Periodontitis has many different levels of severity but the common outcome is chronic inflammatory response. This is a condition when the body breaks down the bone and tissue in the infected area of the mouth, which will ultimately result in tooth and bone loss.
This disease is usually referred to as periodontal disease. It is one of the leading causes of tooth loss among adults. The good news is that gum disease can easily be treated, if it is diagnosed in the early stages. If you have any of the following warning signs, it is important to notify your dentist:
1. Your gums bleed easily.
2. Your gums are red, tender and/or swollen.
3. You can see pus in between your teeth and gums when they are pressed.
4. Your gums seem to be pulling away from your teeth.
5. You have chronic bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
6. You notice a change in your bite or in the way that your teeth fit together.
7. Your teeth are loose or they are separating.
8. The fit of your partials or dentures have changed.
Many gum issues are caused by plaque that is not removed and remains around the gum-lines of the teeth. The bacteria that are in plaque produce acids and other toxins. The acids and toxins can destroy bone and gum tissue, over a long period of time. Brushing twice a day is often not enough to remove the damaging plaque. The most damaging plaque is in between your teeth, so it is very important to floss your teeth every single day. Plaque that is not removed will harden into a thick deposit that is called tarter. If tarter is not removed from the teeth and below the gum-line, it can lead to chronic infection and inflammation. Having your teeth professionally cleaned at a dental office is the only way to remove tartar.
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