Periodontitis (periodontal disease), more commonly known as gum disease, is an infection that attacks the gums and can lead to loss of teeth. This occurs when there is a growth of bacteria that spreads in the mouth. Gum disease is a fairly prevalent medical condition, affecting about 3 million people per year. Although it may appear frequently, periodontitis is preventable. A lack of or subpar oral health hygiene is the typical primary cause.
Causes of Gum Disease
As previously mentioned, the underlying source of periodontitis is absence of a good oral health routine. While this is the core taking place, there are other factors present as well. Some of the factors that contribute to gum disease are:
- Plaque not being removed from the teeth
- Hormonal fluctuations like during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, etc. due to increased sensitivity of the gums
- Different illnesses, including those that affect the immune system like cancer and HIV. These ailments can alter the state of your gums. A condition associated with major risk is diabetes. Diabetes influences how the body uses blood sugar, putting those with the condition at a higher chance of exposure.
- Smoking and other similar habits
- A family history of oral health diseases
- Medicine that decrease saliva production and promotes abnormal gum growth
Symptoms of Gum Disease
The symptoms of gum disease are not always obvious or visible to the eye. This disease may develop without pain before being noticeable or diagnosed by a dental professional. These symptoms may include:
- Bleeding gums during and after brushing teeth
- The loss of teeth
- Teeth that are loose or shifting
- Gums with reddish color and are swollen
- Recurring bad breath even after brushing teeth
- Differences in your bite (how your teeth fit together)
Please note that even without symptoms showing that you still may have gum disease. Only a periodontist or dentist will be able to accurately determine your diagnosis.
The Difference Between Periodontitis and Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a condition that falls in line with gum disease. Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums that usually happens prior to developing into periodontitis. This does not always result in gum disease but has the potential to. Research says that most people get gingivitis at one point in their lives’ because of how mild the symptoms can be. Without treating these symptoms, it can lead to some serious dental problems down the line.
Periodontitis Prevention
The best way to prevent gum disease is to make sure that you are proactive regarding your dental health. Try not to smoke or do any similar activity. Eat as best as you possibly can. Do your best to not grind your teeth together as well. Ensure that your teeth are thoroughly being cleaned daily through brushing and flossing, aiding in the removal of plaque to prevent infection. Replace your toothbrush every 2-3 months or when the bristles of the brush become worn. Get professional dental cleanings twice a year. Visit us at Dental Made Easy for a dental professional to take a look at your teeth today!
Your Dental Health
When it comes to your health, trust in the dentists at Dental Made Easy. Dental Made Easy has the best dental practices in New York City and we are open on Sundays as well as late evenings. All of our dental offices are open and accepting new patients at this time. We are rated among the top dental practices in New York, NY with numerous 5-star reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook. For a teeth cleaning or exam, we recommend calling or booking an appointment online with one of our talented dental professionals. All new patients may also take advantage of our $149 Cleaning Special that includes an exam and x-rays of our Free Dental Implant Consultation Special.
To set up your appointment give us a call at (844) 979-EASY (3279). We have offices in Forest Hills, Queens, Little Caribbean, Brooklyn and Garden City, Long Island. Walk-ins welcomed, we take emergencies and we are open on late nights to accommodate patients with a busy schedule. We hope to see you soon!
