Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. This is caused by the sticky bacterial plaque that constantly forms on our teeth.
The early period of gum disease is called gingivitis. If you have gingivitis, your gums may become red, swollen, and bleed easily. At this stage the disease is still reversible and can be eliminated with a professional cleaning followed by daily brushing and flossing.
Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. You may not be aware that you have such a condition, as it is usually painless. Here are some symptoms that may suggest you have gum disease:
• Gums that bleed easily
• Red, swollen, sensitive gums
• Gums moving away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste
• Loose or separated permanent teeth
• Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Any change in the fit of partial dentures
And some factors increase the risk of developing gum disease.
These:
• Poor oral hygiene
•To smoke
• Genetics
• Crooked teeth that are difficult to keep clean
• Pregnancy
•Diabetes
• Medications, including steroids, certain anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer treatment drugs, some calcium channel blockers, and oral contraceptives
If you suspect that you have gum disease, we definitely recommend a doctor's control because the sooner you get treatment, the healthier and better the result.
