Although bacteria are always present in your mouth, they only become harmful when conditions allow them to increase dramatically. This might happen if you don’t brush or floss, or get dental cleanings on a regular basis. Periodontal diseases are mainly the result of infections and inflammation of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth. In its early stage, called gingivitis, the gums can become swollen and red, and they may bleed. In its more serious form, called periodontitis, the gums can pull away from the tooth, bone can be lost, and the teeth may loosen or even fall out. Periodontal disease and tooth decay are the two biggest threats to dental health.
Other antibiotics, including doxycycline, tetracycline, and minocycline (Arestin), may also be used to treat gum disease. Your dentist will know if you need meds and which ones are best for you. The point of flossing and brushing is to disturb the plaque and bacteria. If you do this, tartar (untreated and hardened plaque) will be less likely to attach to your teeth. If you skip on your oral hygiene routine, the plaque and bacteria have a chance to grow until the next time. Periodontal disease is inflammation and infection of your gums and the bone that supports your teeth.
Some well-known risk factors include smoking tobacco, drinking alcohol, and hypertension. According to some scientists, periodontal disease might also increase the risk of erectile dysfunction. Gum disease, which is also called periodontal disease, is widespread. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost half of adults in the United States have some degree of gum disease. At best, diligent oral hygiene might slow the destruction process. But professional treatment is the key to proper management and long-term oral health.
Gingivitis and periodontitis are major causes of tooth loss in adults, according to the American Dental Association. Many people think gum recession is a normal part of aging. You may have heard the expression “long in the tooth” to describe getting older. This refers to how the gum line tends to recede and expose more of the teeth.
“Patients may eventually end up losing their teeth,” Dr. Neiva said. And some research has connected periodontal disease with other undesirable health conditions, such as dementia, diabetes and heart disease. Gum disease treatment encompasses a wide range of dental procedures. Healthcare providers use these procedures to reduce infection in your mouth and rebuild tissues damaged by periodontal (gum) disease. Periodontists (gum specialists) usually perform these procedures.
Are you experiencing red, swollen, or bleeding gums? These could be early signs of gum disease. Gum disease is a common condition that affects the tissues surrounding your teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to serious infection and tooth loss.
The Importance of Oral Hygiene
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. Gingivitis is the medical term for inflammation in the gums. Although it is not technically an infection at this stage, gingivitis may lead to infections or more advanced periodontal disease, called periodontitis.
Proper oral hygiene is key in preventing gum disease. Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings are essential steps in maintaining healthy gums. Neglecting these habits can increase your risk of developing gum disease.
Signs of Infection
A tooth infection or “tooth abscess” is a collection of pus and bacteria that forms inside the tooth or gum. Your dentist will check your teeth and gums, and may take some X-rays to check your teeth and jaw bone. The earlier gum disease is identified and treated, the easier treatment will be. The accumulation of gum-infecting bacteria often starts with poor oral hygiene. The dental hygienist will scrape away plaque and tartar from your teeth using special instruments, then polish your teeth to remove marks or stains. If a lot of plaque or tartar has built up, you may need to have more than one scale and polish.
If you notice persistent bad breath, loose teeth, or pus between your gums and teeth, you may have developed an infection related to gum disease. Infections can spread quickly and cause further damage to your oral health if not treated promptly.
Early intervention is crucial in preventing gum disease and infections. If you suspect you may have gum disease or an infection, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
