How to protect your teeth and gums millions of people have periodontal disease and many don’t even know they have it, are you one of them’ Your teeth are supported by tissues, and these tissues become infected when periodontal disease occurs. It is caused by the plaque-forming bacteria in your mouth. You are not able to remove all of this plaque, no matter how diligently you brush and floss. The remaining plaque hardens into tartar. Gum disease can occur when the tartar hardens under the gum line and causes infection and irritation.
Although widespread, periodontal disease is a condition that can easily be prevented. According to the Pennsylvania Dental Association, it is imperative that one maintain healthy teeth and gums. There are two stages of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. The first stage, gingivitis, is the beginning phase where gums become swollen with inflammation from the bacteria trapped between the teeth and gums The good news is that in this stage, periodontal disease can often be reversed if the patient follows a strict routine of daily brushing and flossing. However, if no attention is paid, periodontitis, the second stage of periodontal disease, is likely to develop causing irreversible damage to gums, teeth and surrounding bones.
Periodontitis is more serious because the tissue that holds the teeth to the bone is destroyed, causing tooth roots to be exposed and increasing decay, inflammation and receding gums, resulting in possible tooth loss. Use of tobacco is one of the many factors that can increase your risk of developing periodontal disease. Some other factors that may increase risk are systemic diseases such as diabetes; some medications including steroids, some anti-epilepsy drugs, calcium channel blockers, oral contraceptives and cancer therapy drugs. In addition, bridges that no longer fit properly, crooked teeth, fillings that have become defective and pregnancy.
Researchers have found that people with gum disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease, an expert and general dentist point out. Their theory is that oral bacteria can affect the heart when it enters the blood stream, attaching to fatty plaques in the heart’s blood vessels and contributing to clot formation. To keep your mouth and gums healthy and prevent periodontal disease, experts offer the advice that follows. Your teeth should be brushed well twice a day, and flossing daily is advised. There are places between the teeth and in hard to reach areas where particles of food and plaque can lodge and harden, so brushing and flossing are the best defense.
Get a replacement toothbrush when the bristles of your old one look worn out, or every few months. The use of antibacterial mouthwash and toothpaste with fluoride are two additional ways to help control tooth decay. Watch your diet and keep it balanced. Make healthy food choices. Vary your diet, selecting foods rich in nutrients from the five main food groups. Each day eat an assortment of fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, poultry and meat. Schedule and attend checkups twice a year with your dentist for exams and cleanings.
If you should notice at any time the symptoms of periodontal disease, notify your dentist as soon as possible. To recognize the symptoms of periodontal disease, be on the look out for changes in your gums such as redness, swelling, frequent bleeding, receding, bad breath or bad taste in the mouth, teeth becoming loose, change in bite pattern from misaligned teeth, any pus or discharge coming from the gums between the teeth when gums are pressed on, or any changes in the way your partial dentures may fit.
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