What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a disease that affects the gums and teeth. It has a number of symptoms, such as swelling, bleeding, and pain. Several factors, such as poor oral hygiene and bacteria in the mouth, cause it. There are different types of gum disease, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. In addition, the risk of gum disease is higher for people with certain medical conditions.

Gingivitis

Often, the early stages of gum disease can be reversible, but in some cases, they can worsen and become a more serious infection, called periodontitis. Periodontitis is a severe gum disease that can cause the loss of teeth and damage to the bone surrounding them.

Getting regular dental care from Calgary teeth whitening is essential, including cleanings and checkups. These visits help prevent gingivitis, but they also allow your dentist to check for any signs of periodontitis. If you see any signs, your dentist may recommend a treatment plan.

During a professional cleaning, your dentist will remove any present plaque. These plaques are made up of bacteria and toxins. The toxins cause an inflammatory response in the gum tissue. If the plaque is not removed, the toxins will continue to irritate the gums and trigger further inflammation.

When plaque accumulates in the gums and teeth, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause periodontitis. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection, or they may suggest that you use a special mouthwash. Using mouthwashes can help control plaque and help to prevent gingivitis.

Periodontitis

Keeping up with good oral hygiene is the best way to avoid periodontitis. A professional cleaning can help to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. It is also a good idea to floss regularly. This removes loosened food particles and bacteria from your teeth.

If periodontitis is detected early, it can be treated. Treatment varies depending on the type of periodontitis. Some cases can be treated surgically. Other patients may only require regular cleanings.

Periodontitis occurs when harmful bacteria occupy the gum pocket around a tooth. As a result, the bacteria multiply and release toxins that can damage the tooth and gums. This leads to tooth loss. Symptoms of periodontitis include pain, bleeding, and swelling. If you notice these symptoms, you should contact your dentist immediately.

Several other diseases can also cause periodontitis. These include diseases that affect resistance to infection, genetics, and hormonal changes. In addition, medications for hypertension, antidepressants, and drugs that reduce saliva production can also contribute to periodontitis.

Hormones Associated with Puberty, Pregnancy, and Menopause Can Increase Women's Risk for Gum Disease

During puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, women's hormonal levels change, affecting their oral health. In addition, the changes can affect how the mouth responds to bacteria. These changes can also increase a woman's risk for gum disease.

During puberty, estrogen and progesterone levels increase. These hormones affect the oral tissues and blood supply. These changes can cause gum inflammation and bleeding.

Her oral contraceptive regime also influences a woman's hormones. For example, oral contraceptives that increase progesterone may be linked to gum inflammation. Therefore, it's important to discuss any medications with a dentist or physician. If you are using oral contraceptives, make sure that you inform your dentist or physician if you have any oral health problems.

Women's hormones may cause an exaggerated inflammatory response to dental plaque during puberty, pregnancy, and postmenopausal stages. This can lead to increased irritation from food particles and plaque. This can lead to gum swelling and bone loss.

Prevention

Taking the right steps to prevent gum disease is the best way to avoid its harmful effects. Gum disease can affect the heart, blood vessels, and overall health.

A regular oral hygiene program and professional dental cleanings are vital in preventing gum disease. These measures remove bacteria-infested plaque from your mouth and the teeth and gums. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once daily to keep your mouth free of plaque.

Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease. If you smoke, you should stop. Smoking and poor nutrition can weaken your immune system, making you more likely to suffer from gum disease. Professional cleaning is necessary to remove plaque and tartar that form on the tooth and gum surfaces. In addition, you should see your dentist every six months for checkups. During the examination, your dentist will determine the severity of the infection and will help you develop a treatment plan.