Your Carlsbad dentist has the answers to your questions. If you are wondering about plaque or gingivitis, ask your Carlsbad dentist to explain all the details. This article will help get the ball rolling.
Plaque on gums and teeth can result in inflamed gums and loss of bone under the teeth. This condition is called gingivitis or periodontal disease or gum disease. Over 70 percent of people have this condition and are not aware of it. In the beginning, the condition is painless. Tooth cavities cause discomfort, but the early stages of gingivitis doesn’t have symptoms.
Plaque, a sticky, colorless film of bacteria, food debris and saliva, builds up on gums and teeth. This is the start of gum disease. As it progresses, the bacteria give off toxins (acids) that make the gums red and inflamed and eat away at the bone under the teeth. Brushing and flossing the teeth helps keep the plaque from forming and damaging gums and bone. And it is very important to have regular visits to your Carlsbad dentist who can determine if there is a problem with gum disease.
Other than poor oral hygiene, there are several other factors that may increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.
Plaque and tartar are more likely to form on the teeth of people who smoke or chew tobacco.
Crowding of teeth, as well as irregular spaces between teeth trap plaque and bacteria ” bridges that do not fit or defective fillings can cause such problems.
Steroids, cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure medications, oral contraceptives often have side effects that reduce saliva, making the mouth dry and making it easier for plaque to adhere to the teeth and gums.
When hormone levels change in the body gum tissue can become more sensitive to the toxins produced by bacteria, which leads to gum disease. Things that cause hormone levels to change can be pregnancy, oral contraceptives and puberty.
Some diseases make one susceptible to gum disease, such as blood cell diseases, diabetes and HIV/AIDS.
Some patients are genetically predisposed to a more aggressive type of periodontal disease. People with a family history of tooth loss should pay particular attention to their gums.
After the initial stage of gum disease, one can develop bleeding or red and swollen gums, halitosis, gum infections, receding gums, or any tenderness of the gums. Further progress of the disease will result in odd spacing between teeth as bone is deteriorated. Loose teeth is also an advanced symptom.
Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet and regular visits to your Carlsbad dentist can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease. Good oral hygiene includes regular brushing and flossing to removed food from between the teeth where brushing cannot reach. A balanced diet means you eat your veggies and use good sense at meals. Visiting your Carlsbad dentist twice a year can help you determine any risk that might exist and nip it in the bud before it becomes a serious threat.