Beautiful teeth create wonderful smiles. However, if you have periodontal disease, your smile may leave you feeling self conscious and afraid to share your smile with others.
Periodontal disease is an infection of the supporting tissues of the teeth.
The causes and risk factors of periodontal disease may include:
- Tobacco smoking
- Systemic diseases such as hypertension
- Medications such as steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs and oral contraceptives
- Crooked teeth
- Defective fillings
- Pregnancy
Signs of Periodontal disease are:
- Regular gum bleed
- Swollen, tender gums
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Loose permanent teeth
- Changes in the way the teeth fit together while biting
- Periodontal disease takes place in stages. The stages are:
Gingivitis-This is the first stage of periodontal disease. At this stage, the gum tissue will become inflamed at the neck of the tooth. There may also be gingival bleeding.
Periodontitis-This is the intermediate stage of periodontal disease. At this stage there is Inflammation of periodontal ligaments. There is also minor loss of attachment of the teeth to the gum.
Advanced periodontitis– This is the final and more severe stage of periodontal disease. There is severe breaking down of the supporting periodontal tissues. There is also severe loss of attachment as well as remarkable gingival recession. There is more than 50% loss of bone support.
Taking steps to prevent periodontal disease.
Brushing the teeth as least twice daily. This means removing the bacteria that might find a home on the teeth. It is important that a high quality soft—bristle toothbrush be used for brushing. Your dental professional also recommends fluoride toothpaste.
Cleaning between your teeth every day. Brushing alone will not prevent periodontal disease, it is important that floss is used to clean between the teeth each day.
Visit your dentist regularly. This goes without saying, if you are visiting your dentist regularly, and following proper care for your teeth, periodontal disease can be prevented. Routine dental care and teeth cleaning procedures continue to be vital to preventing periodontal disease.
Let your teeth shine and prevent periodontal disease.
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