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How You Can Defend Your Gums and Teeth Against Periodontal Disease

By: Sheilea Ramirez

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Millions of people have periodontal disease and don't even realize it; so how do you keep them healthy, and how can you discern whether you have this condition or not? When the tissue surrounding your teeth becomes sore and infected, periodontal disease is likely to develop. This disease is caused by the plaque forming bacteria that you find in your mouth. It is not possible to remove all plaque from your teeth and gums, although brushing and flossing is a big help. Any residual plaque will turn into tartar. Gum disease occurs when tartar formed beneath the gums develops into an irritating, pathological infection of the tissues that support your teeth.

There is good news when it comes to periodontal disease - it is easily preventable. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is a reminder often given to the public by the Pennsylvania Dental Association. There are two stages involved in periodontal disease: periodontitis and gingivitis. Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. This is when bacteria wriggles in between the tooth and gum, lodging itself there, invoking inflammation. At the gingivitis stage, everything is still reversible. With regular brushing and flossing, periodontal disease can be avoided. Periodontitis occurs when gingivitis continues undeterred. Periodontitis is the more advanced stage of periodontal disease. Periodontitis damages gums, surrounding bones and the teeth. Once this damage is inflicted, it is irreversible.

Possible tooth loss can result from the more advanced stage of periodontitis where the tissue holding the teeth to the bone is destroyed, followed by exposure of the roots which increases decay, inflammation and receding gums. When it comes to developing periodontal disease, there are several factors that can increase your risk, including the use of tabacco. Other factors are various systemic diseases like diabetes, certain types of medications, such as steroids, some anti-convulsants, cancer drugs, oral contraceptives and calcium channel blockers. In addition to disease or medications, the risk of periodontal disease may also increase due to bridges that no longer fit properly, crooked teeth, defective fillings, and even pregnancy.

Interestingly, researchers have seen that people who suffer with gum disease are also more likely to suffer from coronary artery disease. This happens when bacteria lodged in the mouth enters the blood stream and reaches the blood vessels surrounding the heart, where it forms fatty deposits that can result in the formation of blood clots. To keep your mouth and gums healthy and prevent periodontal disease, experts offer the advice that follows. Brush your teeth at least two times a day, and floss once a day. These two activities will remove most of the plaque and food particles from the surface of the teeth and even in between the teeth where the toothbrush can't reach.

You should also get a new toothbrush when the one you're using becomes frayed, usually every few months. Using a fluoride toothpaste and antibacterial mouth rinse is another way to help keep tooth decay at bay. Make sure you also eat nutritious and well balanced diet. Eating daily from the five main food groups; grains, dairy, fruits, vegetables, meat and poultry. Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for your routine oral checkups and professional cleanings.

Contact your dentist immediately if you notice any symptoms of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease's symptoms include red, swollen or tender gums that either bleed easily or pull away from the teeth, chronic bad breath or a bad taste, and loose or separating permanent teeth, the appearance of pus between your teeth or gums when pressed, as well as a change of your teeth alignment when you bite or in the fit of your partial dentures.

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