The Scary Woes Of Gum Disease
We typically think of our mouth as a vehicle for talking and eating. We overlook caring for it while attracting bacteria day in and day out. Some bad bacteria can attack your gums and teeth. This could start the early stages of gum disease, also medically termed periodontal disease, if not looked after.
Gum disease starts out with plaque build up. The plaque sticks to your teeth and at first is not visible to you. If you don’t make regular trips to a dentist who will usually scrape it off during cleaning, then it can build up over time at extreme stages. When this happens it turns into a hard substance known as tarter. When tarter builds up it can only be removed during a cleaning as it is too hard for you to scrape away.
In the early stages of gum disease, you will experience swelling of the gums, and maybe light bleeding as you brush. This stage is called gingivitis. Overtime, if you haven’t sought treatment, the bone and tissue deteriorate, and teeth often become loose and may need to be removed, or they eventually fall out. This stage is called periodontitis. Another sign that goes along with this is bad breath. To prevent this from happening, the starting place is protecting your gums.
In most cases you can prevent gum disease. The rule of thumb for good oral hygiene allows you to take matters into your own hands. Brush after every meal, include flossing. Maintain a regular schedule for cleaning with your Dentist, twice a year is the norm. Even if you have noticed early stages of gum disease , a quick trip to your Dentist who will begin the necessary diagnostic in treatment will help you fight this off.
The good news is that gum disease is preventable. Attention to everyday oral hygiene including brushing, flossing and cleanings by your professional two times a yearly may be the only steps necessary to prevention.
With these measures, you’ll be successful keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
Author: Scott W.
Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and does not intend to give advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have a health problem or think that you might. Visit your doctor or periodontist for advice, diangosis or treatment.
