Gum disease is the second most common disease in North America, second only to the common cold. The causes for gum disease may vary from genetics to bacterial invasion, and gum disease should not be taken for granted as it may result in irreversible complications. The best way to deal with gum disease is to work to prevent it or reduce its effects with the help of your dentist.
To fully understand gum disease, it helps to study the causes and the stages. As mentioned above, the most common causes of gum diseases are genetics and bacterial invasion. You may be genetically prone to gum disease or it could be that your oral health care routine cannot help you guard against gum disease.
When your teeth are not cleaned well during brushing, food particles remain and form plaque, which may possibly lead to gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis occurs in the early stages and it is easier to treat. It just affects the gums. It can become severe, though, when left unmanaged. It can be manifested by redness and swelling of the gums. If the condition persists, it can lead to the second stage of gum diseases called periodontitis.
Periodontitis is a more serious stage of gum disease. At this stage, the gums and the teeth are both affected. It can be characterized by redness and swelling of the gums as well as increasing gaps or pockets found in between teeth. Treatment relies on undergoing surgery which can help reduce the effects of gum disease.
Our best advice is to work with your dentist on preventing gum disease instead of treating the effects of gum disease. Contact Wesbrook Village Dental Centre to learn more about your oral health care or to book your regular hygiene cleaning.