Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support the teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because gum disease is usually painless, you may not know it has. Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that is constantly formed in the teeth.

Here are some warning signs that may indicate a problem:

Gums that bleed easily
Red, swollen, tender gums
Gums that are remote teeth
Persistent bad breath or bad taste
Permanent teeth that are loose or separate
Any change in the way your teeth fit
Any change of the partial adjustment
Certain factors increase the risk of developing gum disease. They are:

Poor oral hygiene
Smoking or chewing tobacco
genetics
Twisted teeth that are difficult to keep clean
pregnancy
diabetes

Consult your dentist if you suspect you have gum disease, older car treat you better. The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. If you have gingivitis, the gums can turn red, become inflamed and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is still reversible and can be removed by professional cleaning in your dental practice, followed by daily brushing and flossing.

Advanced gum disease is called periodontitis. Chronic periodontitis affects 47.2% of adults over 30 years of age in the United States. It can lead to loss of tissue and bone that supports the teeth and can become more severe over time. If this is the case, the teeth feel loose and begin to move in the mouth. This is the most common form of periodontitis in adults, but it can occur at any age. It usually worsens slowly, but there may be periods of rapid progression.

Aggressive periodontitis is a form of destructive periodontal disease that occurs in patients who are otherwise healthy. Common features include rapid loss of tissue and bone and may occur in some areas of the mouth or the entire mouth.

Research between systemic diseases and periodontal disease is ongoing. While a link is not conclusive, some studies indicate that severe periodontal disease may be associated with many other health problems such as diabetes or a stroke.

It is possible to have gum disease and have no warning signs. This is one reason why regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are very important. Treatment methods depend on the type of disease and the progression of the disease. Good dental care at home is essential to help keep periodontal disease from getting worse or recurring. Remember: You do not have to lose your teeth to gum disease. Brush your teeth twice a day, clean between your teeth every day, eat a balanced diet and regularly arrange visits to the dentist for a lifetime of healthy smiles.