Gum disease is a common oral health issue that dentists treat. You may focus more on cavity prevention, but gum issues can be just as critical to your wellness. Putting off treatment can cause more serious issues. You should first recognize the signs and symptoms of this condition and then seek your dentist’s help right away. If you address gum problems promptly, your general dentist can prevent additional consequences and even reverse its effects. There are also things you can do to combat the disease on your own.
Also known as periodontitis, this disease affects the tissue in your mouth. It can destroy the gums and, eventually, cause tooth loss and bone loss. The condition starts out as gingivitis, which includes swelling and bleeding of the gums. Unchecked, it can become more severe, causing pain and discomfort. Other symptoms can include bad breath, gum recession, and spaces between the teeth.
Periodontitis occurs when bacteria build up on the teeth and at the gumline. This causes a sticky substance, known as plaque, to form. When it hardens, it becomes tartar, which destroys the gums and teeth. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are the most effective ways to prevent the disease. Using a mouthwash can help eliminate bacteria in the mouth as well. People should also regularly see the dentist for examinations and checkups.
As gum disease progresses, the teeth can begin to pull away from the gums. This can cause the teeth to become loose and shift. Over time, the teeth could fall out on their own. The teeth could also be more prone to being knocked out.
Along with tooth loss, there can also be problems with the jaw. As gum disease becomes more serious, the jaw can shrink, deteriorating the bone that supports the teeth. Bone loss not only contributes to tooth loss, but it can change the shape of the person’s face. It can also affect speech. Once there is bone loss, it cannot regrow on its own; the dentist would have to do a bone graft.
The bacteria that cause gum disease can impact more than the gums and teeth. If the patient does not receive treatment, infections can develop in the mouth. This can cause intense pain and may require a root canal or tooth extraction. The infection could spread throughout the mouth and face.
Perhaps the most alarming consequence of ignoring gum disease is that it can get into the bloodstream. When this happens, the infection can reach the heart, affecting the cardiovascular system. Periodontitis is a cause of heart disease. This condition can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
You should care about your health, and it can start with your gums. Flossing and brushing regularly will reduce your risk of developing gum disease. It is clear to see why you should not put off getting help for this condition. If your gums hurt or are swollen or bleeding, talk to your dentist right away.
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