The Mouth - Body Connection

Bad breath (Halitosis)

Bleeding gums / Gum disease

Cavities

Oral care and pregnancy

Diabetes and oral health

Dry mouth (Xerostomia)

Plaque

Sensitive teeth

Stained/discolored teeth

Bleeding gums / Gum disease

Periodontal disease is characterized by chronic bacterial infection that affects the gum and the bone supporting the teeth. It is caused mainly by the accumulation of bacterial plaque on tooth surfaces. If left untreated, periodontal disease can result in tooth loss.
To play a preventive role, oral hygiene must be precise and complete. It is important to clean not just the surface of the teeth, but also the spaces between the teeth and below the gumline.

Be aware of the causes and symptoms of gum disease
Gum disease is classified in terms of severity, with gingivitis being the mildest form. Gingivitis is the most easily treated and reversible form of gum disease. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene. Gingivitis is a term used to describe inflammation of the gums caused by plaque build-up at the gumline.???? Plaque consists of bacteria that should be removed regularly or the plaque will harden into tartar, which can only be removed by your dental professional.

There are many factors that can make an individual more susceptible to gingivitis. Among them are:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Poor nutrition
• Smoking
• Aging
• Genetic predisposition
• Hormonal changes
• Some medications
• Stress
• Viral and fungal infections
• Systemic diseases and conditions (such as diabetes)
• Disease states that lower immunity
• Pregnancy
• Orthodontic treatments

With a lot of health or medical conditions, pain is a trigger to signal the presence of a problem. However, with gingivitis, there is usually little or no discomfort at this early stage. Therefore, it is important to recognize the early symptoms:

• Gums that bleed easily or are persistently red and swollen
• Tooth sensitivity
  

• Persistent bad breath

Three out of four adults will experience gum disease in their lifetime.
The incidence of gum disease is high, underlying the importance of recognizing the signs of early gum disease (gingivitis) before it progresses to periodontitis and eventually the destruction of bone and tooth loss.
Visit a dental professional twice per year to identify early signs of gum disease.
It is important to think of your oral health as a collaborative effort between you and your dental professional. You're in charge of daily maintenance, while your dentist has the task of closely examining your teeth and gums, to identify any changes that could be a cause for concern. With gingivitis, the initial warning signs might go undetected. However, regular visits to your dental professional can keep your oral health in check. Gingivitis is reversible, so early detection is important, coupled with professional treatment and good oral home care.

Not treating gingivitis can lead to serious gum disease.
If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress into an advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis, which damages the gum tissue and underlying bone. Tooth loss and other damage caused by periodontitis cannot be reversed. However, your dental professional can limit further damage by stopping the progression of periodontitis.

By arming yourself with the right dental products, having regular check-ups and being aware of how your oral health relates your overall health, you’ll be well on your way to healthier teeth and gums – and a healthier you.