Periodontal disease originates in the gums, where infections form from harmful bacteria and other matter left behind from eating. Early warning signs include chronic bad breath, tender or painful swollen gums and minor bleeding after brushing or flossing. In many cases, gum disease can go unnoticed for months until damage is severe. Once gum disease sets in, the toxins produced by the bacteria damage the teeth's connective tissue and bone, eventually destroying them and leading to tooth loss. Signs of Gum Disease and Causes As gum disease progresses, the bone tends to recede. In some cases, the root of your tooth can become exposed, causing tooth sensitivity. Since bone recession is not visible to the naked eye, left untreated it, may contribute to tooth loss. It is very important to visit your dentist for professional examinations and dental cleanings to effectively and properly identify gum disease in its earliest stages. Some common signs of gum disease include: • Bleeding gums during tooth brushing or flossing • Sensitive, red or swollen gums • Bad breath • Teeth that are loose or appear to have shifted Because gum disease doesn't always present obvious symptoms, many people may not even be aware that they have gum disease. Additional gum disease symptoms include mouth sores, itchy gums, an unpleasant taste and gum recession. Diabetics are at a Higher Risk for Gum Disease Diabetes affects nearly 24 million people in the United States and the Academy of General Dentistry encourages those with diabetes to pay extra attention to their oral health. Studies show that those with diabetes are more susceptible to develop oral infections and gum disease than those who do not have diabetes. Since diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection, the gums tend to be more at risk for gum disease. Without regular checkups with your dentist, gum disease can easily go unnoticed, leading to serious complications. To prevent problems with bacterial infections in the mouth, a dentist may prescribe antibiotics, medicated mouth rinses, and more frequent cleanings for a patient with diabetes. Diabetics are also recommended to schedule their dental appointments for morning hours because blood glucose levels tend to be under better control at that time of day. Gum Disease Prevention Begins at Home Preventing gum disease can save you a lot of pain, expense, and misery down the road if you follow a few simple guidelines. While regular dental exams are necessary to remove tartar and detect early signs of periodontal disease, you play the most important role in preventing tartar from forming. The following are some measures you can take to keep your teeth healthy for a lifetime: • Brush for five minutes, twice a day, with fluoridated toothpaste. • Floss daily to remove plaque from places your toothbrush can't reach. • Although not a substitute for brushing and flossing, a mouth rinse can reduce plaque up to 20 percent. • Eat right: Starchy and sugary foods increase plaque, and only a healthy diet provides the nutrients necessary to prevent gum disease. • Avoid cigarettes and chewing tobacco • Have your dentist correct problems, such as faulty fillings, crowded teeth or teeth-grinding. Exercise preventative care and schedule regular check-ups with your dentist in Niagara Falls. The best way to detect early signs of periodontal disease is to visit your dentist regularly for proper maintenance and care. Protect your teeth and begin gum disease prevention at home.
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Gum disease (periodontal disease), is a chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissue. It is the major cause of approximately 70 percent of adult tooth loss, which affects three out of four people at some point in their lives. Continue reading to learn more about gum disease and how you can prevent it.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Robert LaCarrubba at Niagara Quality Care Dentistry, Niagara Falls cosmetic dentist. Offering services in areas such as Niagara Falls sedation, veneers, six month braces and implants, Dr. LaCarrubba is committed to providing patients with the best dental care available.
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