What Is Gum Disease And How To Fight It
We normally have a high amount of different types of bacteria living in our mouth
. Most of them are there to defend us from the invasion of bad bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa and are controlled by the enzymes in our saliva and stomach.
However, there are other bacteria that harm our oral health and cause tooth decay and cavities. We fight these bacteria with good daily oral care which includes brushing and flossing at least twice a day.
The problem arises when these bacteria continue to grow in our mouth without a treatment that helps getting rid of it.
What is Periodontal (gum) disease and what causes it?
As bacteria reproduces in our mouth, it clings to the teeth forming a sticky, colorless film called dental plaque. If this plaque is not removed within 48 hours, it hardens forming a rough deposit called tartar which can only be removed by a dental hygienist. Our dentist near Burbank offers professional cleaning services. When tartar develops along the gum line it produces toxins that injure the gum, causing inflammation, and infects the supporting tissue that holds our teeth. Because gum disease begins as a painless process, the person may be unaware that a problem exists.
Causes and Risk Factors:
* Poor oral care. Not brushing or flossing at least twice a day, and avoiding the use of a fluoride mouth rinse
* Smoking. Because of a lower oxygen level in the mouth, smokers are 2-7 times more likely to develop gum disease than non-smokers.
* Diabetes. It worsens periodontal disease when it is poorly controlled.
* Stress. Our bodies become weaker at fighting infection under stress.
* Medications. Some drugs for depression, seizures, cancer and blood pressure lessen the flow of saliva which protects teeth and gums.
What are the symptoms?
Gingivitis. This is the mildest form of gum disease caused by inadequate oral care. It affects the gums, making them red, swollen and prone to bleed easily. Gingivitis causes bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth. It is reversible with professional treatment and proper oral care at home our at our burbank dentistry.
Periodontitis. When gingivitis is left untreated it can advance to periodontitis. Here, plaque spreads and grows below the gum line and the tissues and bones supporting the teeth are broken and destroyed. As the disease worsens, the gums are pulled away from the teeth forming pockets (spaces between teeth and gum) that are infected until the teeth becomes loose and have to be removed.
General symptoms:
* Continuous Bad Breath
* Red or swollen gums
* Tender or bleeding gums
* Swollen tongue or pushing back from
the floor of the mouth
* Painful chewing
* Loose teeth
* Sensitive teeth
* Swelling develops below the chin, making it
red, tender and warm
If you do notice any of the signs or symptoms listed above, see a specialized dentist.
A series of tests and exams will let us know if you have gum disease:
* We ask about the patients medical history to identify any risk factors present.
* We examine the gums, looking for any signs of inflammation.
* With a tiny ruler or probe we measure the depth of the pocket between the teeth and the gum.
* An x-ray may be taken to evaluate the teeth and the supporting bones holding them.
What is the treatment for Periodontal Disease?
If a periodontal disease is identified, depending on the extent it could be treated by:* Scaling and Root Planing (deep cleaning). Scaling means scraping off the tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing clears any rough spots on the tooth root where bacteria accumulate to help get rid of it. Here, the gums are re-attached to the teeth.* If the patient only has gingivitis or mild gum disease, an effective mouth rinse may be prescribed, along with antibiotic gels and micro-spheres that help control and kill bacteria.* However, if pockets are still present after scaling and root planing and the disease has destroyed bones and connective tissue, surgery may be required. We will discuss all the details and concerns with the patient.Because periodontal disease occurs in people after their 30s it is important to prevent it early by practicing a good oral hygiene at all times, which includes brushing and flossing twice a day, using a mouth wash and a fluoride toothpaste, and replacing your toothbrush every 3 months. Maintaining a balanced diet with few sugars is a plus!If you want more information about this topic, feel free to visit http://www.cyberdentistry.comby: Gohar Hovsepyan DDS
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