Gum Disease
Why Worry about Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease?
The toxins released by the plaque and tartar buildup are what cause
gingivitis (swollen gingiva) the mildest form of Periodontal Disease.
The gingiva, better known as the gums, can be irritated to the point
that they are swollen, and red, inflamed and slightly infected.
Bleeding present during brushing and flossing indicates disease.
When plaque is not removed from the gumline. The irritated, swollen
gum tissues pull away from the tooth creating an enlarged space
for even more plaque to accumulate. The irritation and as a result,
the disease, can become chronic health problems unless this space,
a periodontal pocket, is cleaned and eliminated. Plaque should be
removed by thorough brushing and flossing in order to keep the teeth
and gums in tiptop shape.
Early stages of this disease are easily corrected, and generally
recurrences are preventable. However, if gingivitis is neglected
and ignored, a much more serious condition called periodontitis,
can develop. Usually, most cases of this more advanced stage are
seen in adults. In cases where there is advanced periodontitis,
the patient experiences irreversible changes to the gum tissues
which then lead to the destruction of the supportive bone which
holds the teeth in place.
When parents help children in brushing and flossing, make sure that
the kids visit the dentist on a regular basis, and limit sugary
foods and snacks, they can ensure that their children have the best
chance possible to avoid all stages of periodontal disease in their
childhood and adulthood. Parents and adults need to do the same.
They need to be diligent in their oral care, watch and reduce the
consumption of sugary foods, and visit their dentist at least every
6 months…more frequently, if they have active periodontal disease.
What Do You Know About Calculus or Tartar?
Your saliva reacts with the accumulated soft, sticky plaque to
create hard, rough substance called calculus or tartar. Because
of its rough surface, calculus traps even more bacterial plaque
which, in turn continues to irritate the gum tissues. Calculus is
not as easy to remove as plaque and must be removed professionally
by your dentist or dental hygienist. If the calculus is not removed,
it will irritate the gums enough to create a chronic infection below
the gum line resulting in periodontal disease.
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