Plaque on gums and teeth can result in inflamed gums and loss of bone under the teeth. This condition is called gingivitis or periodontal disease or gum disease. Over 70 percent of people have this condition and are not aware of it. In the beginning, the condition is painless. Tooth cavities cause discomfort, but the early stages of gingivitis doesnt have symptoms.
Plaque is a gummy colorless film of bacteria, food and saliva. It sticks to teeth and gums. The bacteria produce an acidic toxin that make the gums sore and destroy the bone beneath. You can combat the plaque with proper and regular brushing and flossing and having regular check ups with a dentist will determine if any gum disease exists.
There are several other things that can cause gingivitis and gum disease or which may increase the risk.
Plaque and tartar are more likely to form on the teeth of people who smoke or chew tobacco.
Crowding of teeth, as well as irregular spaces between teeth trap plaque and bacteria " bridges that do not fit or defective fillings can cause such problems.
Steroids, cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure medications, oral contraceptives often have side effects that reduce saliva, making the mouth dry and making it easier for plaque to adhere to the teeth and gums.
When hormone levels change in the body gum tissue can become more sensitive to the toxins produced by bacteria, which leads to gum disease. Things that cause hormone levels to change can be pregnancy, oral contraceptives and puberty.
Some diseases make one susceptible to gum disease, such as blood cell diseases, diabetes and HIV/AIDS.
Genetics can predispose a person to gum disease. If you have a family history of tooth loss, it might indicate a possibility of a more aggressive type of gum disease. Keep alert for any signs of gum disease if you have this family history.
After the initial stage of gum disease, one can develop bleeding or red and swollen gums, halitosis, gum infections, receding gums, or any tenderness of the gums. Further progress of the disease will result in odd spacing between teeth as bone is deteriorated. Loose teeth is also an advanced symptom.
Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease. Good oral hygiene includes regular brushing and flossing to removed food from between the teeth where brushing cannot reach. A balanced diet means you eat your veggies and use good sense at meals. Visiting a dentist twice a year can help you determine any risk that might exist and nip it in the bud before it becomes a serious threat.
Plaque is a gummy colorless film of bacteria, food and saliva. It sticks to teeth and gums. The bacteria produce an acidic toxin that make the gums sore and destroy the bone beneath. You can combat the plaque with proper and regular brushing and flossing and having regular check ups with a dentist will determine if any gum disease exists.
There are several other things that can cause gingivitis and gum disease or which may increase the risk.
Plaque and tartar are more likely to form on the teeth of people who smoke or chew tobacco.
Crowding of teeth, as well as irregular spaces between teeth trap plaque and bacteria " bridges that do not fit or defective fillings can cause such problems.
Steroids, cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure medications, oral contraceptives often have side effects that reduce saliva, making the mouth dry and making it easier for plaque to adhere to the teeth and gums.
When hormone levels change in the body gum tissue can become more sensitive to the toxins produced by bacteria, which leads to gum disease. Things that cause hormone levels to change can be pregnancy, oral contraceptives and puberty.
Some diseases make one susceptible to gum disease, such as blood cell diseases, diabetes and HIV/AIDS.
Genetics can predispose a person to gum disease. If you have a family history of tooth loss, it might indicate a possibility of a more aggressive type of gum disease. Keep alert for any signs of gum disease if you have this family history.
After the initial stage of gum disease, one can develop bleeding or red and swollen gums, halitosis, gum infections, receding gums, or any tenderness of the gums. Further progress of the disease will result in odd spacing between teeth as bone is deteriorated. Loose teeth is also an advanced symptom.
Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease. Good oral hygiene includes regular brushing and flossing to removed food from between the teeth where brushing cannot reach. A balanced diet means you eat your veggies and use good sense at meals. Visiting a dentist twice a year can help you determine any risk that might exist and nip it in the bud before it becomes a serious threat.
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Instant Orthodontics and Smile Lift Procedures at North Scottsdale Family Dentistry
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