How to Keep Yourself Protected from Periodontal Diseases
All over the world, millions of people have periodontal diseases and most of them do not even know it. Perhaps you are one of them. Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues supporting the teeth and is caused by plaque-forming bacteria in the mouth. Regular brushing and flossing remove plaque, but not all of it. Any remaining plaque hardens into tartar that irritates and infects the gums, which eventually leads to gum disease. Fortunately, periodontal disease is very much preventable. You just have to take extra effort to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Periodontal disease comes in two stages. The early stage is gingivitis, in which bacteria get between the tooth and gum, leading to inflammation. In this first stage, brushing and flossing can still reverse the disease. If gingivitis is left untreated, the more advanced stage develops. This stage is called periodontitis which causes irreversible damage to the teeth, gums, and surrounding bones. Periodontitis is very serious as it can destroy the tissues holding the teeth to the bone, exposing tooth roots and leading to increasing decay, receding gums, inflammation, and possible tooth loss.
Many factors can increase your risk of developing gum diseases, such as tobacco use, ill-fitting bridges, defective fillings, crooked tooth, pregnancy, and systematic diseases like diabetes. Some types of medication can also increase risk, including anti-epilepsy drugs, steroids, calcium-channel blockers, cancer therapy drugs, and oral contraceptives. According to research, people with periodontal disease are twice more likely to suffer from coronary artery disease. The theory is that oral bacteria affects the heart once it enters the bloodstream, attaches to fatty plaques, and contributes to clot formation.
Below are a few very important tips to prevent periodontal disease and maintain optimal dental health.
- Brush and floss daily. Brushing twice daily helps remove food particles and plaque on the surface of the teeth, while flossing once daily cleans in between teeth where the toothbrush cannot reach. Use fluoride toothpaste and replace your toothbrush after a couple of months or once the bristles become worn. It also helps to use an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Have a well-balanced diet. Pick a wide range of nutritious foods, making sure to get a mix of the five main food groups: meat or poultry, fruits, vegetables, dairy, and grain.
- Visit your dentist. Schedule an appointment with your dentist at least every six months for professional cleaning and oral checkups.
- See your dentist as soon as you notice periodontal disease symptoms. Just like most diseases, early detection is important. Symptoms of gum disease include
- Gums that are red, tender, and swollen, easily bleed and pull away from the teeth
- Bad taste in the mouth
- Chronic bad breath
- Separating or loose teeth
- Teeth alignment changes when biting
- Changes in dentures fit
- Pus appears between the teeth and gums when pressed
Keep the following tips in mind and religiously follow them to protect yourself from periodontal diseases. It is better that you take steps in preventing it from afflicting you, as getting the necessary cures for gum disease will take much of your valuable time and money. If you have any more questions about periodontal disease – what it is and how you can prevent it – do not hesitate to talk to a reputable dentist in your area. They should be more than happy to educate you on this very common disease and give you more tips on how to prevent it.
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