Gum Disease

If you experience swelling, bleeding, or tenderness in your gums while brushing your teeth, you may be suffering from some type of gum (periodontal) disease, a condition that affects approximately 80% of American adults. Gingivitis is one of the most common forms of gum disease and if it is not treated it may develop into a more serious gum disease that may eventually lead to the destruction of bone and teeth. Luckily gingivitis is preventable and treatable. Proper dental hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of developing gingivitis and if you already suffer from gingivitis, dental cleaning by a qualified dentist can reverse the damage.

Causes and Risk Factors

When the starches and sugars from the food that you consume interact with the bacteria that are present in your mouth, your teeth become coated with an invisible, sticky layer known as plaque. Plaque is usually reduced or eliminated by regularly brushing teeth, flossing, and using mouthwash. However, plaque re-forms quickly, usually within 24 hours, and requires cleansing to prevent dental or gum diseases. If this plaque remains on the teeth for more than two or three days, it hardens under the gum line into tartar or calculus (a tough, white substance that makes plaque more resilient). Removing tartar requires professional cleaning by a dental practitioner because it is difficult to remove by brushing and flossing. If this plaque and tartar remain on the teeth for a long period of time, they tend to irritate the gingival (the part of the gum around the base of your teeth). This causes the gums to become tender and swollen and to bleed easily.

There are several factors that contribute to the development of gum disease. Here are a few:

	Poor dental hygiene (infrequent and improper brushing and flossing)
	Disorders such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and Down’s Syndrome
	Medicines taken for high blood pressure, heart disease, seizures, and depression
	Lifestyle factors such as stress, smoking, alcohol, and poor nutrition
	Hereditary factors
	Clenching teeth together or grinding teeth
	Breathing through the mouth
	Improper bite
	Advancing age
	Pregnancy
	Birth control pills
	Ill-fitting dentures

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