Millions of individuals around the world are walking around with periodontal disease, and aren’t even aware of it; could you be one of these people? Periodontal disease is an oral infection of the surrounding tissues that support your teeth in your mouth. Bacteria that live in your mouth form the plaque that causes the disease. It is not possible to remove all plaque from your teeth and gums, although brushing and flossing is a big help. This remainder of plaque eventually hardens to become tartar. Tartar that develops below the gum line agitates and infects the gums. This leads to gum disease.
Although widespread, periodontal disease is a condition that can easily be prevented. The Pennsylvania Dental Association has long informed the public about the need to keep teeth and gums healthy. There are two stages of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. In stage one, the early phase of periodontal disease called gingivitis, inflammation develops as a result of bacteria that has become lodged between the teeth and gums. If caught early on in this stage, periodontal disease can quite easily be eliminated by a daily brushing and flossing routine. But when left untreated, periodontal disease can advance into the more serious periodontitis, which can damage the teeth, gums, and surrounding bones beyond repair.
What makes periodontitits so serious is that the tissues holding the teeth to the bone are actually destroyed, which in turn causes the roots to be exposed and increase their decay plus the inflammation and receding gum line will result in possible tooth loss. There are quite a number of factors that will increase your risk of developing periodontal disease, especially the use of tobacco. Other remaining factors include diseases such as diabetes, or even certain types of medications which include: oral contraceptives, steroids, and even drugs that are used in therapy for cancer. Not to mention having a bridge that no longer fits correctly, crooked teeth, defective fillings, and even pregnancy.
Expert researchers and general dentists may both point out that it is found that those who have gum disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease. The prevelant theory is that the oral bacteria that causes gum disease can affect the heart by entering the blood stream, then attaching to fatty plaques in the heart’s blood vessels, therefore contributing to clot formations. The following are tips offered by experts to both maintain optimal dental health and the prevention of periodontal disease. Twice a day, make sure you brush and floss your teeth. By brushing and flossing, you help remove plaque and food particles from your teeth’s surface, as well as between your teeth where a toothbrush can’t easily reach.
Replacing your toothbrush at least 4 times a year or sooner if the bristles become frayed or worn. Tooth decay can be held off by the use of antibacterial mouth wash, or by using a toothpaste with fluoride. Make sure to maintain a healthy and nutritious diet. Eating daily from the five main food groups; grains, dairy, fruits, vegetables, meat and poultry. Even more important is visiting your dentist twice a year for your oral health checkups and a professional cleaning.
If you happen to notice the symptoms of periodontal disease you should contact your dentist immediately. Periodontal disease’s symptoms include red, swollen or tender gums that either bleed easily or pull away from the teeth, chronic bad breath or a bad taste, and loose or separating permanent teeth, the appearance of pus between your teeth or gums when pressed, as well as a change of your teeth alignment when you bite or in the fit of your partial dentures.
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