Dentists Want to Prevent Gum Disease
Dentists have a number of recommendations for combating gum disease, but what are they? If you are interested to know the answer to this question, you should read this article
There is a serious potential problem that dentists want their patients to be aware of. It is called gum disease and it can quickly get out of control without the proper treatment and prevention. Gum disease is caused by the bacteria in the mouth and saliva that cause plaque getting out of control and causing an infection. Brushing and flossing help remove this plaque but only dentists can give teeth the thorough cleaning they need.
The beginning stages of gum disease are called gingivitis. The symptoms of this are sore or sensitive areas around the teeth and often bleeding during brushing or flossing. Many people occasionally have bouts of this and it is easy remedied and treated by having a routine cleaning at the clinic and maintenance of a good home oral care plan. In addition to brushing and flossing the use of a mouthwash is also instrumental in combating gingivitis.
A more severe stage called periodontitis follows gingivitis. When gum disease has advanced this far it can begin to cause some real problems. The tissue around the teeth will begin to pull away and the roots will be exposed to plaque and bacteria. Unfortunately because of the risk of spreading the infection dentists often must prescribe antibiotics and prescription mouthwash to clear up the infection before they can come in and do a routine cleaning. If they were to rupture one of the pockets of infection it could get into the blood and spread to the heart or other parts of the body causing serious complications. Also although the damage can be halted any lost tissue will not be growing back which leaves the teeth at an increased risk.
If left to advance this later stage of gum disease will eventually attack the root of the teeth and cause them to loosen so that they fall out. Measures will be taken to stave off the damage at this point but it is unlikely that once they have started falling out that much can be done to save them.
It takes some time for the condition to advance to its limits and it is relatively easy to prevent. Dentists recommend you floss twice a day to remove excess plaque. They also suggest brushing after every meal and using an over the counter mouthwash. Finally but most importantly is to discontinue bad habits like smoking or chewing tobacco.
A healthy mouth looks better and feels better. You will make a better impression on the people you meet and will not have sour or bad breath to limit your social interaction.
