Do These Simple Things to Avoid Gum Disease

Gum Disease: What is it?

When you experience an infection in your jaw bone and teeth it is referred to as periodontal disease or gum disease. Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease and should be addressed as quickly as possible to avoid further complications.

More advanced forms of the disease infect bones and supporting structures of the teeth. If left untreated this has the potential to lead to bone loss.

What are the potential causes of gum disease?

A number of factors can contribute to your risk of developing gum disease, including plaque and bacteria buildup in the mouth, hormonal shifts, smoking, nutritional deficiencies, some prescription medications, uneven teeth and even genetics.

Bleeding gums are a clue that you may have gum disease, which is why you should schedule an appointment with your dentist if you notice that your gums are bleeding. Because your mouth contains millions of bacteria, great oral hygiene every day is a must - to disrupt the bacteria.

If it is left too long, your body will try to rid itself of undisturbed bacteria by sending more blood to your gums. The excess blood may cause swelling, soreness, bleeding and redness. Your body thinks it has an infection - this is called gingivitis, and it won't heal until the source of the infection is eliminated. 

Bacteria can be found in plaque, tartar or calculus, pockets beneath the gums (in cases of advanced gum disease), cavities, abscesses and chipped teeth. They may also hide in old dental work, as repairs to your teeth create an edge or margin that bacteria can adhere to. 

Is it possible for gum disease to be prevented?

There is no secret formula for preventing gum disease. The only way that you can be sure to protect your oral health and prevent serious conditions such as this one is with regular oral hygiene.

The causes above are not alone in the development of periodontal disease, usually, it is a combination of factors usually beginning with a lack of oral hygiene. If you maintain a rigorous and thorough oral hygiene routine, it will be very difficult for gum disease to start to take hold.

For example, while you may be prone to plaque buildup (perhaps due to genetics), as long as you brush and floss your teeth twice a day and visit your dentist as prescribed for regular professional cleanings and checkups, chances are that gum disease will not be able to fully develop.

Whether a pregnancy causes a hormonal shift, you take prescription medication or are a regular smoker, the most common cause of gum disease is the unimpeded development of bacteria and plaque in the mouth.

Most of the time, gum disease can be easily prevented with a good oral hygiene routine. While the issues listed above can increase your risk (and make prevention more challenging), whether it actually develops comes down to the decisions you make every day about your oral health practices.

If you would like to learn more about routine oral hygiene and professional care, please contact our Halifax dentists today.