Simple Tips That Can Help You To Protect Against Periodontal Disease

Millions of people have periodontal disease and don't even realize it; so how do you keep them healthy, and how can you discern whether you have this condition or not? When the tissues supporting your teeth are infected, you have periodontal disease. Bacteria that live in your mouth form the plaque that causes the disease. While brushing and flossing removes most plaque, it is impossible to remove all of it. The remaining plaque hardens into tartar. Once tartar is developed along your gum line, it will inflame and contaminate your gums and cause gum disease.

On a positive note, periodontal disease is not hard to avoid. As the Pennsylvania Dental Association keeps reminding the public, it is very important to maintain both healthy teeth and gums. There are two stages of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease where inflammation develops in places where the bacteria lodges itself between the tooth and gum. It is within this initial phase that flossing and regular brushing can refute the condition altogether. But when left untreated, periodontal disease can advance into the more serious periodontitis, which can damage the teeth, gums, and surrounding bones beyond repair.

The more serious problems caused by periodontitis happen as the gum tissue adhering the teeth securely to the bone deteriorates, leading to inflammation, decay, receding of the gums, and, very possibly, loss of teeth. Use of tobacco is one of the many factors that can increase your risk of developing periodontal disease. Some other factors that may increase risk are systemic diseases such as diabetes; some medications including steroids, some anti-epilepsy drugs, calcium channel blockers, oral contraceptives and cancer therapy drugs. In addition to this there are physical factors like; a bridge that no longer fits snug, crooked teeth, fillings and even pregnancy.

A DDS and expert on the subject states that research has revealed those suffering from periodontal disease to be nearly two times as susceptible to developing heart disease. The reasoning behind this comes from the adverse affects of oral bacteria within the blood stream; it can attach itself to the fatty plaques in the heart's blood vessels, adding to formation of clots. To prevent periodontal disease and get your teeth and gums in the best possible health, follow these tips from experts. Brush your teeth at least two times a day, and floss once a day. There are places between the teeth and in hard to reach areas where particles of food and plaque can lodge and harden, so brushing and flossing are the best defense.

Toothbrush bristles become frayed or misshapen and should be replaced every few months to optimize their effectiveness. The use of antibacterial mouthwash and toothpaste with fluoride are two additional ways to help control tooth decay. Be sure to keep a sensible, wholesome diet. Vary your diet, selecting foods rich in nutrients from the five main food groups. Each day eat an assortment of fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, poultry and meat. Make it a priority to pay your dentist a visit every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning.

Watch out for signs of gum disease; if you see them, head straight to the dentist. Periodontal disease has a number of distinct symptoms, including red, swollen or tender gums, bleeding gums, receding gums, chronic bad breath, unpleasant taste in the mouth, looseness or separation of permanent teeth, pus coming from the gums between the teeth, changes in the alignment of your teeth when you bite, and any differences in the fit of partial dentures.

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