The first step to keeping gum diseases at bay for you and for your family is to know about the two types of gum diseases as well as their common causes.
Healthy gums are pink and firm, and they allow the teeth to fit snugly in their sockets. However, if your gums start to bleed, hurt, and swell, it’s likely that you are experiencing a gum infection. If your gums pull away from your teeth and seem to have a foul smell, your gum infection may be a little bit more serious.
The two types of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis means inflammation of the gums due to bacteria that accumulate on the teeth. A more severe infection, which affects not just the gums but other tissues and structures surrounding the tooth, is called periodontitis.
Usually, gum infections start out as gingivitis. When gingivitis is left untreated, it normally results to periodontitis. Periodontitis involves the damage of the bone and soft tissues that supports the teeth.
What are the causes of periodontal diseases?
First is genes. Periodontal diseases happen to some people more than others due to genetic disposition. But it’s important to note that even those who are highly predisposed to gingivitis or periodontitis can prevent its occurrence by observing good oral care.
Another cause of periodontal diseases is smoking or the use of tobacco. Smoking causes the accumulation of tartar. When tartar develops deep into the gums, this predisposes them to infection. Smoking also slows down the healing of gums, and impedes their normal function. Again, this causes the gums to be more predisposed to infection.
The presence of misaligned, crooked, or crowded teeth also usually causes the build up of plaque, which creates the perfect breeding ground for gum diseases. In such a case, it is especially important to observe good oral hygiene.
Good oral care involves brushing of the teeth after meals and flossing at least twice a day. It’s also highly advisable to see a dentist at least once every 6 months – especially for those who are genetically predisposed to periodontal disease. A qualified dentist should find it fairly easy to detect and diagnose any gum disease. Early detection equates to early management of infection.
If you are looking for a team of experts who can help you with your dental concerns, get in touch with your Dallas Dentist today.
Dallas Dental Wellness, led by Dr. Sarah Kong DDS, is your best team of dentists in Dallas, TX, who can help you keep your teeth and gums in excellent health!
