What exactly is gum disease?
Gingivitis or gum disease is a condition that causes the gums to become red and swollen with a tendency to bleed easily while brushing. Bacteria accumulate in the pockets which form between the gum line and the teeth as a result of deep pockets forming between the gum line and the teeth. This causes tissue decay as the gums become infected. The tooth is permanently pulled out when there is no tissue left to hold it in place.
Periodontitis and gum disease
It is common to refer to gingivitis and periodontitis as gum diseases, but they are in fact different diseases. Inflammation of the gums is the basis of gingivitis. After brushing or flossing, the pockets begin to form, which causes sensitivity and bleeding. Gum disease is a result of periodontitis, an advanced stage of inflammation. It is important to remember, however, that gingivitis does not always lead to periodontitis, so it is important to be vigilant whenever you notice any symptoms of gum inflammation. This article uses the term gum disease to describe the condition of periodontitis.
The causes of gum disease
The cause of gum disease can be attributed to a number of factors. It is obvious that people rarely or infrequently brush/floss their teeth. This condition is caused by bad oral hygiene, which allows tartar to build up and cause damage. If this is ignored for a long period of time, irreversible damage can occur. You are more likely to develop gum disease if you are in the following situations:
Hormonal imbalance. There are various instances in which hormone production becomes imbalanced, such as during pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause. This time period causes the gums to become more sensitive to bacteria, which can cause them to spread more quickly.
Nutritional deficiencies are often overlooked
Maintaining proper gum health is crucial to eating a healthy diet. When the body lacks essential nutrients, it has a hard time-fighting infection, thereby lowering the immune system. The first step in periodontal disease is an infection, and a poor diet can exacerbate gum disease. Researchers have also found that obesity may exacerbate periodontal disease.
Smoking – By preventing gums from recovering and repairing themselves, smoking compromises oral health. Furthermore, nicotine increases tartar buildup, causing bacteria to spread faster and plaque to grow faster.
Immune System Issues – The health problems that compromise the immune system make the body more difficult for the body to heal. Health issues generally fall into this category, and gum disease is no exception. The immune system is known to be compromised by diseases such as HIV, AIDS, and cancer. Diabetic patients may also be at an increased risk of gum disease.
Medications – There is also a possibility that some medications can increase the risk of dry mouth syndrome, especially if they have side effects that include it. As saliva hinders the growth of bacteria, it plays an important role in maintaining oral health. Bacteria spread faster on the gums with a dry mouth, however.
What are the effects of gum disease on the body?
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Gum disease is characterized by many symptoms that can be observed in the mirror. Here are some signs you should look out for when checking if you have one.
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Inflammation of the gums and the formation of reddish pockets.
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When brushing or flossing, the gums bleed easily.
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A receding gum line causes the teeth to shift, resulting in a change in their position. When dentures are not fitting properly or have gaps, it becomes apparent.
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Even after brushing, there is a funny taste in the mouth or constant bad breath.
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Red and swollen gums that are tender.
Hot or cold temperatures can cause the teeth to become more sensitive. At this point, your dentist can better assess the severity of your gum disease. It is for this reason that a routine checkup will allow you to identify the problem quickly and apply methods to reverse the damage. Verifying the extent of the damage may require further diagnosis.
