Periodontal disease is a term that is used to describe a range of
conditions that are caused due to bacterial infections. These diseases
can lead to destruction of the tissue and bone that holds teeth in
place. Gingivitis is the basic kind of periodontal disease.
Causes of Gingivitis
It is typically a result of bad oral hygiene, which in turn leads to plaque buildup. There are certain other factors that can also lead to gingivitis, such as aging, smoking and diabetes. In some cases, it can also be a result of genetic factors.
Pregnancy, stress, certain medication and substance abuse can also cause this condition. Dental plaque contains bacteria that cause irritation in the gums. If left untreated or unattended, this results in infection. The natural immune system tries to fight against the infection and that is when the gums get inflamed. Typically, this disease does not cause the person any discomfort or pain.
The Symptoms
This is exactly why it is so easy for a person to overlook the condition. Since there is no pain or discomfort, you do not realize that the condition exists and you do not get it treated on time. The basic symptoms of gingivitis are swollen gums that tend to bleed easily when you eat something hard or even when you brush or floss your teeth. In cases where the infection has set in very strongly, the gums might also start separating very slowly. If this condition is left untreated, it will eventually spread to the base and the roots of teeth. The plaque that lines the gums and that has now spread to the roots of the teeth starts getting infected. This leads to bleeding which is caused by a bacterial infection.
Regular Check-ups
It is important to get a regular dental check-up even if there is no specific complaint or condition that you are suffering from. These are preventive check-ups. It gives the dentist a chance to see if there is any plaque buildup. He/she will then ensure that it is cleaned out, which will arrest the spread of the infection in the mouth. In effect, it is prevention of gingivitis. The dentist will also prescribe certain antibiotic mouthwashes that have to be used on a regular basis. You will also be asked to come in for a check-up after a few months. In most cases, it is possible to prevent it by regular brushing and flossing after a meal. If illness is the cause of your gingivitis, you will have to see the dentist to get it treated in time.
Causes of Gingivitis
It is typically a result of bad oral hygiene, which in turn leads to plaque buildup. There are certain other factors that can also lead to gingivitis, such as aging, smoking and diabetes. In some cases, it can also be a result of genetic factors.
Pregnancy, stress, certain medication and substance abuse can also cause this condition. Dental plaque contains bacteria that cause irritation in the gums. If left untreated or unattended, this results in infection. The natural immune system tries to fight against the infection and that is when the gums get inflamed. Typically, this disease does not cause the person any discomfort or pain.
The Symptoms
This is exactly why it is so easy for a person to overlook the condition. Since there is no pain or discomfort, you do not realize that the condition exists and you do not get it treated on time. The basic symptoms of gingivitis are swollen gums that tend to bleed easily when you eat something hard or even when you brush or floss your teeth. In cases where the infection has set in very strongly, the gums might also start separating very slowly. If this condition is left untreated, it will eventually spread to the base and the roots of teeth. The plaque that lines the gums and that has now spread to the roots of the teeth starts getting infected. This leads to bleeding which is caused by a bacterial infection.
Regular Check-ups
It is important to get a regular dental check-up even if there is no specific complaint or condition that you are suffering from. These are preventive check-ups. It gives the dentist a chance to see if there is any plaque buildup. He/she will then ensure that it is cleaned out, which will arrest the spread of the infection in the mouth. In effect, it is prevention of gingivitis. The dentist will also prescribe certain antibiotic mouthwashes that have to be used on a regular basis. You will also be asked to come in for a check-up after a few months. In most cases, it is possible to prevent it by regular brushing and flossing after a meal. If illness is the cause of your gingivitis, you will have to see the dentist to get it treated in time.
Midtown Dental has the best dentists who will be able to treat gingivitis. It is best to get your teeth checked by them every 6 months. Also, check out their new page on The Best Way to Deal with Gingivitis.
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