Periodontal Disease – Symptoms and Risk Factors
Wednesday, September 23rd, 2009 Subscribe To Our Feed
Swollen, tender and bleeding gums are signs of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an infection caused by bacteria that attacks the gum lines causing the supporting tissues to break down. If left untreated, the infection will advance further into the tissues beneath the gums and may even cause tooth loss in the case of severe stages of the disease.
Treatment depends on how progressive the periodontal (gum) disease has become. For mild stages such as gingivitis, thorough cleaning and scaling to remove plaque and tartar deposits are usually the first step. Severe conditions as in the case of deep pockets, surgery may be required. Periodontal disease is often painless and shows no warning signs; hence, it is important to have regular dental visits and periodontal examinations.
Improper oral hygiene is the most common cause of gum disease. But do you know that some medical conditions and unhealthy lifestyles contribute to the risk of developing gum disease?
Here are some of the most common factors that increase the risk of periodontal disease:
• Smoking and chewing tobacco
• Systemic diseases such as diabetes
• Steroids, certain types of anti-epilepsy drugs, medication for cancer therapy, some calcium channel blockers, oral contraceptives
• Pregnancy
If you have any of the medical conditions above, you should care for your oral health more than the usual. Smoking not only causes gum disease, it also stains your teeth and harbors unsightly tartar deposits in the gum lines. Pregnant women should consult their dentist if they need to take calcium supplements to care for their teeth during the course of their pregnancy.
A good oral hygiene is paramount in keeping the gums free from periodontal disease. Brushing your teeth after every meal, flossing regularly, eating a well-balanced diet and regular dental visits are essential in keeping your teeth and gums in good condition.
To learn more about periodontal disease and proper oral hygiene, contact our Ft Lauderdale dentist at www.sleepdentists.com.
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