Gingivitis and Gum Disease According Dentists
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection that is caused by the buildup of plaque on your teeth. The issue with gum disease is it rarely shows any symptoms until it is fairly advanced. So it’s best to check in with your dentist on a regular basis. Gingivitis is common and the least serious of gum disease but left untreated can lead to worse issues. The main symptom of gingivitis is red and puffy gums that bleed easily.
The Problems With Gum Disease
Gingivitis, in most cases, is common and treatable. If left untreated though it has been found to lead to major health problems like heart disease, loss of teeth, lung problems, diabetes, and strokes. Research has shown that people with poor oral health may be three times as likely to have a stroke. Studies have also shown that pregnant women may be up to 7 times as likely to deliver prematurely and their baby is at risk to be a low birth-weight. Although the risk is more likely with the severity of the illness, even women with minimal symptoms are shown to be at risk.
The Cause Of Gum Disease
Although gum disease can be an underlying issue from other health issues, the most common reason for gum disease is buildup of plaque. Plaque is a colourless film of bacteria that occurs with eating and drinking. Some foods and drinks create more plaque than others but plaque happens no matter what. Plaque coats your teeth and gets between your teeth and gums. Over time, plaque hardens and irritates your gums to become inflamed. Leaving your gums inflamed can leave them open to infection which creates gum disease. If gum disease is left untreated, it attacks the jaw supporting your teeth which makes your gum tissue shrink.
How Common Gum Disease Is
Next time you see a dentist ask them the best way you can prevent gum disease. Up to 80% of Canadians will be affected by gum disease in their lifetime. The probability of gum disease developing increases as you get older. It affects one in three elderly people and one in seven middle-aged people.
How To Prevent Gum Disease
Gum disease can be prevented with good oral hygiene. You can start to create good habits by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing once a day. Eating healthy meals, avoiding refined sugars, and not smoking cigarettes can help your teeth significantly. Speak to your dentist to talk about gum disease and how you can prevent it better. Your dentist will be able to tell you how you can personally do better with your oral care.