Many people want to preserve their teeth throughout their lifetime. However, they may not realize that the health of their gums plays a primary role in the preservation of their teeth.
One of the primary reasons for tooth loss is periodontal disease. Here is a bit of information about gum disease to help you better understand it.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease begins due to inflammation from oral acids. As the bacteria in the mouth feed on simple carbohydrates from the foods and drinks that you consume, they produce acidic waste. The acid irritates the sensitive gingival tissues and incites gum disease. The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis.
What Are the Signs of Gingivitis?
If you are suffering from gingivitis, your gums may appear swollen and red. In addition, they may bleed when you brush your teeth. In fact, for many people, one of the first indications that they have gum disease is a bit of blood on their toothbrush bristles.
What Happens if Gingivitis Progresses?
As gingivitis progresses, the state of the gums continues to decline. The gingival tissues may become infected by oral bacteria and start to release pus. Additionally, pockets may form between the gums and the teeth.
The pockets deepen as the gum disease worsens. The increased pocket depth can allow oral microbes to invade and infect the jawbone.
As a result, the jawbone may start to shrink. The shrunken bone tissue no longer holds the teeth firmly in place. Thus, the teeth become loose and may eventually fall out.
How Can You Prevent Gum Disease?
You can prevent gum disease by cleaning the mouth properly on a daily basis. Brushing twice daily and flossing help to eliminate the oral microbes that release the inflammatory acid. Additionally, hygienic habits help remove particles of food that oral bacteria could feed upon.
Antimicrobial mouth rinses may also be used. The rinses include antibacterial ingredients, such as chlorhexidine or alcohol. Chlorhexidine is typically preferred because it is less drying to the oral tissues than alcohol.
In addition to at-home care, you should also be sure to receive professional preventive dental services. Regular dental cleanings remove tartar, which is hardened plaque. The hard substance tends to accumulate around the gum line. As tartar builds up, its pores provide additional surface area for the accumulation of plaque and bacteria. Thus, its removal can help maintain the health of the gums.
To learn more about periodontal disease, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area.
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