Red, inflamed or swollen gums are often the sign of gingivitis, the first stage of periodontal disease or worse still, periodontitis. Plaque is the most common cause of the condition, but there are several others that can cause gum infection.
The following are some of the common ways to get gum disease:
Gum disease is usually caused by plaque, which is a film of bacteria that forms on the gums and teeth and removable through daily brushing and flossing. Millions of people in the united states have one form of gum disease. Fortunately, early detection makes it possible to reverse the effects of the disease. A good oral care routine and regular dental checkups at least twice a year can help reduce plaque.
Smoking inhibits the regular function of the gum tissue cells, making the mouth more susceptible to infections such as gum disease. Chewing tobacco is just as worse. Patients need to avoid the habit to prevent oral health issues.
Getting the daily vitamins is difficult, but the deficiency of vitamin c could be detrimental to the gums. A diet with high sugar and carb and low water and vitamin C content is a recipe for periodontal disease. To prevent periodontal disease, it is advisable to drink a lot of water and get a balanced diet that is high in vitamin C.
Some medications cause side effects that can lower the production and flow of saliva, which may cause dry mouth, encouraging the further spread of bacteria. It is advisable to discuss prescription medications with the doctor before use.
Women during pregnancy or their monthly menstrual cycles experience an increase and decrease in hormones, making the gums more prone to disease. Pregnancy does not automatically mean women will experience issues with their gums or teeth, but it means they will have to take extra steps for oral care at the period for oral health. The gums might become irritated, red or bleed slightly when brushing or flossing. These symptoms often disappear after pregnancy, but the dentist should still be aware of the symptoms.
It is common for teeth to become crooked, overlap or rotate. However, a crowded mouth can be a breeding area for gum disease, since dental misalignments create more areas for plaque to accumulate and wreak havoc on the teeth and gums. Patients need to take extra care if they have crooked teeth or visit the dentist for teeth straightening.
The dentist needs to know if there is a history of periodontal disease in the family. It might increase the risk of developing a bacterial infection.
Evidently, there are many potential causes of periodontal disease, all of which are manageable by being proactive with oral care. The best step to take after noticing the signs of the disease is to visit the dental office for treatment. The general dentist will examine the condition of the gums and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Request an appointment here: https://ashley1dental.com or call Ashley Family Dental at (713) 405-3499 for an appointment in our Houston office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Periodontal Disease in Houston, TX.
Tooth extraction can be a frightening concept, especially for those who have never had a tooth removed before and are not sure what to expect or those who have had a bad experience with extraction in the past. However, there are various things you and your dentist or oral surgeon can do to help mentally…
A general dentist is a great resource to utilize when struggling with an unhealthy tooth. They have the training and experience to know how to handle just about any type of damage, whether it be a loose or infected tooth. When it comes to a general dentist pulling a tooth or saving it, there are…
Understanding the pros and cons of Invisalign® and veneers is an important first step to deciding which treatment option is right for you. Many are familiar with Invisalign for a straighter smile, but fewer have heard of veneers for orthodontic treatment. This review offers insights into Invisalign and veneers as it relates to correcting teeth…
A lot of people are curious about what materials are used to make dental dentures. This article will show you the different types of materials that can be used and their benefits, and which material is best for your situation.Dental dentures are used to replace missing teeth that cannot be fixed with a dental bridge.…