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Gum Diseases

Periodontal or Gum Diseases is the disease of the tissues that surrounds and supports your teeth. It is a major cause of loosening of teeth and tooth loss in adults and sometimes it spreads painlessly so that you might not know that you have this disease. In our country almost every adult has mild or severe form of gum problems. This is mainly caused by a thin film of bacteria which deposits on teeth known as Dental Plaque. This thin film releases harmful toxins once it is deposited on teeth and damages the gums.

Gingivitis makes gums red, tender, swollen and likely to bleed

Health Gum Tissue and Bone anchor teeth firmly in place

The mild form of Gum Diseases is called Gingivitis. In this the gums become red, swollen and often bleed easily.

The more advanced stage of Gum Disease is called Periodontitis. In this the gums and the bones which support and anchor the teeth become excessively damaged. As a result the teeth become loose and tend to fall.

In Periodontitis, gums recede further and supporting bone is destroyed causing teeth to become loose

Gingivitis makes gums red, tender, swollen and likely to bleed

Signs of Gum (Periodontal) Disease:

Bleeding of gums while brushing teeth
Red, swollen or tender gums
Persistent bad breath
Loose teeth
Formation of pus between teeth and gums
Partial dentures not fitting properly
A change in the way teeth fit on each other when you bite

Some Common Factors Leading to Periodontal Diseases:

Tobacco smoking or chewing
Ill fitting partial dentures
Mal formed and sharp teeth
Diseases like Diabetes
Pregnancy or use of Oral Contraceptives
Due to some drugs taken to cure Cancer, Epilepsy, Cardiovascular Diseases or intake of Steroids.

Prevention of Gum Diseases:

If we take good care of our teeth and gums then we can entirely prevent Periodontal Diseases. Some of the necessary steps which should be taken by everyone are –

Brushing teeth at least twice daily.
Cleaning between the teeth using floss or inter dental cleaning aids.
Eating a balanced diet which has more of cereals, green leafy vegetables, fruit, milk and vegetables and less of sugar. Avoid eating in between meals.
Get regular checkups from your nearest Dentist.