Gum Disease
After last week’s blog about gum disease, you are probably questioning how you can be proactive in spotting gum disease in yourself. First we need to ask ourselves: What is gum disease? We can define this as an infection of your gums that causes inflammation, leading to negative consequences in regards to the bones and tissues that surround your teeth. This infection is a result of plaque not being removed from your teeth. This plaque creates a sticky film over the tooth, and can also cause red and swollen gums. This plaque, when left alone to build up on the teeth and gum line, turns into a hardened substance, called tartar. This tartar being present on your gum line and teeth makes it extremely difficult to keep your teeth and gums healthy at home. If this is detected at your routine check-up, a deeper cleaning may be recommended by the dentist to help remove the build up, and restore your gum health.
Symptoms that are commonly seen with periodontal disease include gums that bleed during brushing and flossing at home, gums that are red and puffy, bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth, increased space in between your teeth, loose teeth, a feeling that your bite is “off”, or a change in the way that your once perfectly fitting dentures or partial fit. Another factor to be mindful of are chronic diseases that commonly occur at the same time as periodontitis are rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, various heart diseases, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and stroke. Many of the diseases listed are treated by medications that cause chronic dry mouth. This can cause gum disease due to the fact that saliva is responsible for keeping your mouth clean, and allows for the natural removal of harmful bacteria from your teeth. If you have been recently diagnosed with any of these it is important to notify your dentist at your next appointment.
As always, contact us to set up your next cleaning appointment or with any questions! We are eager to help!
Prince Frederick Dental Center
410-535-5055
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