Gum disease is one of the most popular reasons people seek dental care. It is a gum infection that can lead to teeth falling out of their sockets when left untreated. Also known as periodontal disease, it occurs in two distinct stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, and it is characterized by symptoms like bleeding, tender, or inflamed gum tissues. At this stage, the patient’s condition can be reversed with improved oral hygiene, teeth cleaning, and deep cleanings.
Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gum disease, and the infection is chronic at this stage. The condition has also been linked to various health issues like diabetes, heart disease, and pneumonia. Periodontitis is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. It causes permanent damage to the gum and bone structures that keep teeth in place.
Some of the factors that can lead to periodontal disease include:
Plaque is a sticky film that forms in the mouth. It contains bacteria and the acids they make that cause tooth decay. Good oral hygiene is essential to remove plaque since it hardens into tartar when left on teeth for more than a day. Brushing and flossing cannot get rid of tartar; dentists get rid of these deposits during teeth cleanings using a metal tool called a scaler.
Tartar and plaque can make their way to teeth roots and gum pockets, infecting the tissues there. The immune system’s response to the infection of gum tissues leads to many of the symptoms associated with gum disease, like receding and inflamed gums.
Chewing or smoking tobacco products hinders the regular function of tissues in the gum, making them more vulnerable to bacterial infections. Quitting these products provides significant protection against periodontal disease.
Women are more susceptible to gum disease during their monthly cycles or pregnancies. Hormonal changes, like those that occur during pregnancy, do not automatically mean a person will develop gum disease; it just means they have to take extra steps to protect themselves, like improving their oral hygiene and seeing their dentist more often. Some women experience temporary symptoms of gum disease like bleeding gums during their pregnancy.
Some medications dry out the mouth. This creates a more favorable environment for oral bacteria, increasing the risk of developing tooth decay or periodontal disease.
Bite issues can cause some teeth to overlap others, making them harder to clean. This increases a person’s risk of developing tooth decay or gum disease.
Gum disease can lead to the total loss of teeth, and it has been linked to various health issues. Good oral hygiene goes a long way when it comes to protecting your gums. Give us a call or stop by our Troy dental clinic to set up an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.thanasasdds.com or call Thanasas Family Dental Care at (248) 260-2878 for an appointment in our Troy office.
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