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Gum Disease – A Battle Worth Fighting

• By admin on October 8, 2015

According to the dentist professionals, bleeding gums, bad breath, and loose permanent teeth mean it’s time to find a dentist.

Gum disease is an infection that affects tissue that supports and surrounds the teeth. It is one of the most dominant causes of tooth loss in people over 18 years of age. It is often a silent disease, causing little or no pain and presenting with no outward symptoms.

Symptoms

In its early stages, gum disease may be virtually undetectable. As it progresses, gums may bleed easily and pull away from the teeth. Many patients report tender gums and persistent bad breath. Gum disease also affects the bite – the way teeth align when at rest. One of the first clues that it is time to find a dentist is bleeding gums after brushing.

The cause

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is caused by a layer of bacterial film over the teeth known as plaque. Plaque is always present but can be reduced with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Gum disease is common in people who use tobacco products, are pregnant, have diabetes, or take certain medications including those to treat cancer and epilepsy. Additional risk factors for periodontal issues are poor oral hygiene, crooked teeth, and a familial history of periodontal disease.

Aggressive periodontitis

Otherwise-healthy adults suffering from tissue or bone loss in the mouth may have a destructive form of periodontal disease known as aggressive periodontitis. This condition is characterized by rapid onset. Any visible indication of an aggressive form of gum disease is cause for concern. Patients believing they may have this condition should immediately find a dentist that specializes in periodontics to prevent irreparable damage.

Regular dental exams are an important weapon in the fight against gum disease and can help detect this smile-dimming condition before it’s too late.