Gum disease is rarely talked about and not given much attention by the vast proportion of the population. This leads to a general lack of knowledge about the basic facts about gum disease, how to spot it, how to treat is and how you can prevent it. This general lack of understanding is what leads around two thirds of Americans to develop gum disease. It is the leading cause of tooth loss and one of the most common oral health problems experienced by adults.
In the early stages of the condition, you can reasonably easily reverse it and restore a high level of oral health. This early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis and if the condition is found early and treatment is sought, then you will not suffer long-term oral health problems such as tooth loss.
What Is Gum Disease?
This condition is essentially a bacterial infection, which can be made worse by other factors such as the growth of plaque and tartar on teeth and gums.
Whenever you eat something, bacteria begin to form in your mouth. Bacteria are able to grow and multiply very quickly. The bacteria can then interact with your saliva and this will cause plaque, which is a sticky, yellowish substance that grows on the teeth and gums. Plaque irritates the gums and can make the bacterial infection worse. Plaque can also harden and cause tartar, which is a substance that can only be removed by your dentist.
As gum disease progresses, you might experience one or all of these conditions:[arrowlist]
- Bone damage
- Loss of bone
- Loose teeth
- Loss of teeth
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Poor Oral Hygiene
In order to avoid developing gum disease and to assist overcoming it if you have already developed a level of gum disease, you need to ensure that you are following a good oral health routine at home. This should involve brushing your teeth, using dental floss and rinsing with a mouthwash. This three-step routine is essential as it is an effective way to remove bacteria from your mouth. Since bacteria grow quickly in your mouth, you need to be brushing at least twice a day.
Symptoms Of Gum Disease And Periodontitis
There are certain symptoms of gum disease that you should be on the lookout for. If you notice any of these signs, then you need to visit your dentist for advice:[arrowlist]
- Receding gums resulting in teeth appearing longer
- Constant bleeding, especially during brushing
- Halitosis, which is chronic bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Pain
- Inflamed or swollen gums
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OraMD is a natural oral health product that can help to prevent or treat gum disease. In addition, the product website offers a four-step oral hygiene program, which will maximize your oral health.
Related articles
- Bleeding Gums (topdentists.com)
- Gum Disease Bacteria Linked To Pancreatic Cancer Risk (medicalnewstoday.com)
- Treating Gum Disease (everydayhealth.com)
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