What Dentists Want You to Know About Gum Disease

Gum disease is swelling and soreness of the gums caused by the bacteria that accompany plaque. If plaque is not properly removed during brushing and flossing, it will cause an infection in the gums. It is important to see the dentist regularly because this condition can cause tooth loss if left untreated. Serious cases can lead to heart disease.

The first stage is called gingivitis. At this stage, the soft tissue above the teeth may be mildly sore or sensitive, and it many bleed during brushing or flossing. Reversal of the condition if diagnosed this early is possible with a routine cleaning provided by a dentist or hygienist followed by proper home care.

During periodontitis, the second stage, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth leaving the roots exposed to the bacteria ridden plaque. The damage at his point cannot be reversed but further damage can be prevented. A patient may be given an oral antibiotic along with a bacteria fighting rinse, and usually the dentist will require the infection to be gone before a routine cleaning can take place. If infection and plaque are present in the gums, they can enter the body making their way to the heart, and prodding at the sensitive mouth with sharp dental instruments puts the patient more at risk for this scenario.
Once the disease has become advanced periodontitis, the fibers that hold teeth in place are destroyed. This causes problems with the bite, loose teeth, and often loss of teeth. Treatment will be attempted to save the teeth, but statistically, tooth loss is extremely common in advanced periodontits.

Some signs of impending disease are bleeding or swollen gums, changes in the bite, pus between the teeth and gums, and chronic bad breath. The best way to fight the disease is with structured and thorough oral hygiene including brushing and flossing daily. Special rinses and tooth pastes to fight early gingivitis can be purchased over the counter or provided by a professional, and of course, regular visits to the dentist and good preventative care habits are important not only to keeping infection at bay but also to over all oral health.

Cigarettes and other forms of tobacco can induce, prolong, or worsen the condition, and people who smoke or use tobacco are encourages to stop as the habit contributes to this and many other dangerous health issues. Those with diabetes are also more prone to suffering from gum disease and tooth loss. The infection also causes a rise in blood sugar which makes diabetes difficult to manage.