If you notice changes in your gums, please visit your dentist as soon as possible. The earlier you solve potential problems, the greater the possibilities are of restoring gingival health and of preventing the development of more complicated diseases.
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Some people have a tendency
for having gingival infections caused either by certain daily habits or
by genetic predisposition. Poor oral hygiene habits alone can cause the
development of certain periodontal diseases.
Main periodontal diseases
Gingivitis,
or inflammation of gingival tissues, is caused by deficient
toothbrushing which does not remove bacterial plaque build-up from
teeth. To avoid this very common disease, you can:
- Use a toothbush with soft, end-rounded bristles, and use a special interdental brush to thoroughly clean interproximal spaces that a normal brush cannot reach. This should be done 2-3 times per day for 3-5 minutes. Brush gums gently at a 45º angle to efficiently clean teeth and gum line.
- Check your mouth, before, during and after brushing to make sure you have done a thorough job.
- Strengthen the bones of your mouth by eating calcium-rich foods, by exercising and by not smoking.
- Take vitamin A and C. This helps reduce gingival bleeding.
- Wipe your tongue with a tongue cleaner. This way you will sweep away pathogenic microorganisms.
- Try to eat raw vegetables every day. Hard, fibrous foods clean and stimulate teeth and gums.
- Visit your dentist regularly.
All cases of periodontitis
start with gingivitis. It does not affect all teeth in the same way and
it can be detected by alterations in the colour and texture of gums and
an increase in gingival bleeding during daily oral hygiene routines.
Periodontitis is a bacterial infection that affects not only gums but
also the tooth supporting structure (bone and periodontal ligament).
The bacteria present in a dental Biofilm produce toxins that irritate and weaken gums, which, when not properly treated, can potentially cause periodontal pockets to form, the loss of support tissue, and eventually the loss of teeth. Bacteria that cause periodontitis can travel through the bloodstream and inhabit other parts of the body like the heart or lungs, etc. and contribute to or worsen diseases such as Heart attacks, Diabetes, etc. For this reason, early treatment is very important. Don't forget to visit your dentist.
The bacteria present in a dental Biofilm produce toxins that irritate and weaken gums, which, when not properly treated, can potentially cause periodontal pockets to form, the loss of support tissue, and eventually the loss of teeth. Bacteria that cause periodontitis can travel through the bloodstream and inhabit other parts of the body like the heart or lungs, etc. and contribute to or worsen diseases such as Heart attacks, Diabetes, etc. For this reason, early treatment is very important. Don't forget to visit your dentist.
Dr. Claudio A. Sorrentino
