Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can progress
to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth. It is caused by the
bacteria in plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your
teeth. If not removed through daily brushing and flossing, plaque can build up
and the bacteria infect not only your gums and teeth, but eventually the gum
tissue and bone that support the teeth. This can cause them to become loose,
fall out or have to be removed by a dentist.
There are three stages
of gum disease:
- 1. Gingivitis: this is the earliest stage of gum disease, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gumline. If daily brushing and flossing do not remove the plaque, it produces toxins (poisons) that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. You may notice some bleeding during brushing and flossing. At this early stage in gum disease, damage can be reversed, since the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are not yet affected.
- 2. Periodontitis: at this stage, the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged.
- 3. Advanced Periodontitis: in this final stage of gum disease, the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are destroyed.
How do I know if I
Have Gum Disease?
Gum disease can occur at any age, but it is most common
among adults. If detected in its early stages, gum disease can be reversed so
see your dentist if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Gums that are red, puffy or swollen, or tender
- Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
- Teeth that look longer because your gums have receded
- Gums that have separated, or pulled away, from your teeth, creating a pocket
- Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- Pus coming from between your teeth and gums
- Constant bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
How is Gum Disease
Treated?
A professional cleaning by your dentist or hygienist is the
only way to remove plaque that has built up and hardened into tartar. Your
dentist or hygienist will clean or "scale" your teeth to remove the
tartar above and below the gum line.
If your condition is more severe, a root planning procedure
may be performed. Root planning helps to smooth irregularities on the roots of
the teeth making it more difficult for plaque to deposit there.
By scheduling regular checkups, early stage gum disease can
be treated before it leads to a much more serious condition. If your condition
is more advanced, treatment in the dental office will be required.
SOURCE: http://tinyurl.com/msgt4y2
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