About 80 percent of the adult population in America has some type of gum disease. Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is caused by a bacteria that forms beneath the gum tissue. This bacteria can damage healthy gum tissue and bone, and it can contribute to health problems in other areas of the body. Studies indicate infections in the mouth may be connected with diseases such as diabetes, strokes, heart disease and problems associated with birth. Periodontal disease can be prevented.
Who Gets It?
Gum disease mostly affects people over the age of 30, but gingivitis can become a problem for some teenagers. A lack of consistent oral care may contribute to gum disease when plaque accumulates under the gums. Smokers are also more likely to develop periodontitis and are less likely to recover from the disease. Others who often have gum disease are women experiencing hormonal changes, diabetics, people under stress, people who are genetically susceptible to gum disease, people taking certain drugs, people who have cancer or AIDS and people receiving treatment for these diseases.
Gingivitis and Periondontitis
Plaque is extremely damaging to teeth, and the bacteria that comes with plaque causes the gums to easily bleed. Gums will also get inflamed and swollen. This condition is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is gum disease in its early stage, and if steps are not taken to reverse this disease, Gingivitis can lead to a condition in which the gums become loose around the teeth and infected. After a while, bone and gum tissue break down and teeth loosen to the point where they need to be extracted.
Symptoms
Many times signs of gum disease go unnoticed. Symptoms may not become evident until they manifest as persistent bad breath, inflamed and swollen gums, gums that bleed to the touch, pain when chewing, teeth that loosen and tooth sensitivity. Any of these symptoms may indicate gum disease.
What to Do About It
If you think you have gum disease, see your dentist. Your dentist will ask you about your medical history so he can determine if there are any contributory factors that may put you at risk for gum disease. An examination of your mouth will also be performed to check for gum redness and pockets. A special ruler will be used to check the depth of these pockets, if you have them. X-rays may be taken to check for loss of bone. Your dentist may recommend that you see a specialist (periodontist).
Treatment Procedures
Treatment procedures may involve the removal of plaque by scraping the teeth and the removal of bacteria from the roots of the teeth. The patient may also be asked to stop smoking, if she smokes, to increase the success rate of the treatment.
Medications
Medication that is put into the gum pockets to keep bacteria under control, oral medical or a special mouthwash may be prescribed.
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