Gum disease, or gingivitis as it is also known, can be caused when bacteria is allowed to build up in the mouth which causes the gums to become infected. This usually manifests itself in painful, irritating and swollen gums that if left untreated it can become periodontitis and lead to wider infection and tooth loss.
If gum disease has become the more serious periodontitis the dentist will usually have to prescribe anti-biotics to treat the infection. In some serious cases they might even have to perform a gingivectomy and remove some of the infected tissue. Gum disease can be a serious problem that can cause months and years of pain and costly dental procedures but it is completely preventable.
The first line of defence against gum disease is effective cleaning and good standards of oral hygiene. By brushing twice a day for three minutes and flossing at least once a day you can significantly reduce the risk of gum disease. Having regular check ups every six months with your dentist is also crucial in the war against gum disease. Avoiding any kind of tobacco product also helps to reduce the risk factor from gum disease as it can prevent the gum’s natural ability to heal itself.
These preventative measures all help to prevent the build of plaque, a filmy layer of bacteria that coats the teeth and gums and causes infection. If not removed plaque can become tartar which is impossible to remove by conventional methods, and will need a dental hygienist to remove it in a process called scaling.
Gum disease can be a nasty and irritating condition that can require lengthy and uncomfortable treatment, not to mention money and stress. By remembering the easy steps to prevent gum disease you could save yourself the pain of gum disease. Brush, floss and visit a City of Leeds dentist every six months.
Tags: gingivitis, gum disease, oral hygiene, swollen gums
