The major cause of tooth loss, today, is gum disease. We are all at risk from gum disease so we need to take preventative steps such as good oral hygiene, a low or no sugar diet and regular dental check-ups.
Questions & Answers
Gum Disease – What Is It ?
Gum disease or periodontal disease has two distinct stages depending on its severity.
1. Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a less severe disease of the gum that is reversible.
2. Periodontitis
Periodontitis is the next stage on from gingivitis. When gum disease reaches this stage it is a more destructive disease.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Plaque, a sticky film that adheres to the teeth and a little below the gum line is generally the cause of gum disease. Plaque needs to be removed on a daily basis with brushing and flossing. If plaque is not removed, tartar, will be encouraged to form, this is where the gum disease causing bacteria like to breed. Gingivitis is the early form of gum disease and is relatively easy to reverse and control.
Left unchecked the disease may develop in to Periodontitis, it is at this stage of gum disease that you are at risk of loosing teeth and even bone.
What Are The Symptoms Of Gum Disease ?
1. Bleeding gums after brushing.
2. Gums can be swollen, red or tender.
3. Receding gum line.
4. Uncontrollable foul breath.
5. The presence of pus between gums and teeth.
6. Teeth becoming loose.
7. Your teeth feel different when you bite.
Due to the fact that it is possible to show no signs of gum disease highlights the importance of having regular dental check-ups.
What Other Factors Could Heighten The Risk Of Gum Disease Developing ?
1. Smoking or chewing tobacco.
2. Suffering with diabetes.
3. The use of some medications or drugs such as cancer treatments, steroids and oral contraceptives.
4. Ill fitting bridges and false teeth.
5. Irregularly shaped teeth.
6. The failing of previous dental work.
7. Motherhood
Are There Links Between Other Health Issues And Gum Disease ?
There are well documented gum disease links between general bad health and poor oral hygiene. Bacteria in the mouth can find its way in to the rest of the body via the blood stream. If the immune system is malfunctioning bacterial infection can run rife in the human body.
Some Problems That Can Ensue Are As Follows :
1. Failing immune system.
2. Infections of the lung or the worsening of existing lung conditions.
3. Strokes. Studies have shown that 40% of bacteria found in the, carotid artery, fatty deposits of stroke victims comes from the mouth.
4. Heart disease.
5. Diabetics suffering with gum disease have shown to be more likely to have a coronary disease as compared to diabetes sufferers that don’t have gum disease.
6. Premature birth and under weight babies have been shown to be more likely with women suffering from gum disease.
