All You Need To Know About Gum Disease

If your gums are swollen or they bleed when you brush your teeth, it could be a sign of gum disease. Many adults tend to have trouble with their gums, even with regular tooth brushing and flossing. Getting an evaluation and timely gum disease treatment in San Diego from your dental care provider can help preserve your smile.

What exactly is gum disease?

This disease is a gum infection that gets worse over time.

· Early stage gum disease

This includes swollen, bleeding gums. Some people do not experience any symptoms. This is also reversible with timely treatment.

· Advanced gum disease

This occurs when the gums’ inner layer pulls away from the teeth and forms pockets. It is defined by the loss of bone supporting the teeth.

Who gets the gum disease?

You may end up facing a higher risk of gum disease if you:

· Use tobacco

· Have diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and immune system disorders such as HIV and AIDS.

· Do not have good dental hygiene habits

· Have crooked teeth, loose fillings or permanent dental appliances such as bridges that do not fit well

· Have an immediate family member who has a history of gum disease or early tooth loss

· Do not see the dentist regularly

How can gum disease affect your health?

Infections in the gum in their early stages may tend to cause uncomfortable symptoms.

Advanced gum disease can cause you to lose your teeth, making it very difficult for you to eat. The bacteria from this disease can also raise your risk of health issues, such as:

· Diabetes

· Heart disease

· Lung disease

· Stroke

· Arthritis

What causes this disease?

The bacteria present in your mouth tend to produce toxins that may irritate the gum tissue. If the bacteria is not cleared away by brushing your teeth, it form a film, known as plaque, that is difficult to remove. Over time, the plaque hardens and forms a substance known as tartar that then requires professional cleaning to get rid of.

Moreover, it is now widely known that there is a genetic component to gum disease. Some people even have an exaggerated immune response to the bacteria that cause periodontal disease.

 

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