Gum disease is an infection that affects the gum tissue. Without treatment, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. Since the early stages of this condition are painless, most people do not notice that their gums are infected. Observing proper dental hygiene measures and visiting a dentist at least twice per year can prevent this condition. This article explores the causes of gum disease, common symptoms, preventive measures, and treatment at Splendid Dental Bellaire.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a general term referring to various levels of gum tissue infection. Gingivitis is a mild form of the illness that causes swelling, irritation, and gum bleeding. If untreated, gingivitis may lead to periodontitis, which is a severe form of the infection. The most common cause of gum disease is the failure to observe oral hygiene, which leads to the accumulation of bacteria. These bacteria form a sticky substance on the teeth surface, known as plaque. Regular brushing and flossing can help get rid of plaque before it hardens into tartar.
Since tartar is hard and crusty, it is difficult to remove by brushing and flossing. Failure to remove this coating through professional dental cleaning can lead to severe gum inflammation. Various risk factors may also make some people more prone to gum disease. Some of these factors are smoking, hormonal changes, diabetes, and medications that affect saliva flow.
Signs of Gum Disease
The symptoms of gum disease may differ according to the severity of the condition. For instance, during the early stages, one may show mild signs such as bad breath and swollen gums. Besides, the tissue may feel tender and bleed during brushing. As the condition advances, one may notice pus oozing from the gums and experience pain when chewing. The spaces between the teeth and gums may also increase due to gum recession. Additionally, teeth may get sensitive to hot and cold drinks, loosen, and appear prolonged. Other common signs of gum disease are:
- Changes in tooth alignment
- Sores in the mouth
- Toothache
- Changes in the way partial dentures fit
How to Avoid Gum Disease with Splendid Dental Bellaire
Gum disease is a prevalent condition, but there are measures one can observe to prevent it. For example, brushing your teeth after every meal helps to get rid of plaque and food particles. It is also crucial to use a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid irritating the gums and change it every three months. Another way to prevent gum disease is by flossing at least once daily. This step helps to remove food particles in the areas that a toothbrush cannot reach. Dentists can also help you get rid of plaque and tartar while providing periodontal treatment. They may also treat dental problems that increase the accumulation of bacteria. Such issues include defective filling, grinding teeth, receding gums, and tooth decay.
Smoking weakens the immune system and is a common risk factor for periodontitis. So, quitting the behavior may prevent the condition and make it easier for gums to heal after infection. Eating a diet rich in Vitamin A and C while avoiding sugary food helps in prevention. Additionally, using a therapeutic mouthwash kills bacteria and removes food particles. The mouthwash can also prevent gum disease by reducing plaque and the rate of tartar formation. However, you should avoid substituting brushing and flossing with the mouthwash.
Prevent Gum Disease with Splendid Dental Bellaire
Taking proper care of your gums and teeth is crucial to your long-term oral health. At Splendid Dental Bellaire, we provide specialized dental services to help prevent oral health problems. Our general dentistry specialists can administer fluoride medication for periodontal treatment. We also educate patients on the most effective ways to avoid oral health issues. Do not wait until you suffer from gum disease; call Splendid Dental Bellaire today at (Direct) to take control of your oral health.
