London dentists talks about Protecting your teeth and Gums
Many individuals have gum disease and don’t even know that they have it. You may be one of them! Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums without loss of the bone that supports your teeth. Whereas, periodontitis is an inflammation of the bone and/or gums that support your teeth with an associated loss of the supporting bone. In other words, once bone is lost, it is referred to as periodontitis. Periodontitis is caused by certain oral bacteria contained within dental plaque. You can brush and floss to remove this plaque, however it is difficult to remove all of the plaque. This remaining plaque may harden to form calculus and tartar, and this may extend below the gumline. Periodontitis is preventable, with proper and daily brushing and flossing.
Besides bacteria, there are other factors that can increase your risk of developing periodontitis. Several of these factors are: diabetes, smoking, medications (i.e., anti-epileptic drugs, steroids, cancer drugs, oral contraceptives, and calcium channel blockers). Also, defective dental restorations and pregnancy can also be considered factors.
Gingivitis and periodontitis have also been linked to an increased risk of several systemic diseases. The mechanism of action is that bacteria, and their by-products and end-products, enter the blood stream and contribute to various coronary and heart diseases.
So, make sure that you brush and floss at least twice daily, brush your tongue, replace your toothbrush every 6 months, eat a balanced diet, and contact your dentist immediately if you feel that you have any symptoms of gum disease. Gingivitis and periodontitis may not be discovered by the patient until it is too late, so make sure you have regular dental check-ups!
