Oral hygiene and gum disease
Dental and oral health is an essential part of our overall health.
Gum disease is very closely related to oral hygiene.
Poor oral hygiene can lead to dental cavities and gum disease and has proved to have been linked to heart disease , cancer and diabetes.
Let us understand what is gum disease
Gums around the base of teeth are called gingiva.
When food debris mixes with saliva and bacteria which in turn forms dental plaque that sticks to the surface of teeth -starts gingivitis (gum disease)
Gingivitis is the earliest age of gum disease- if the infection passes to bones it leads to much more serious gum disease called periodontitis and later tooth decay
Factors causing gingivitis (gum disease )
- Poor oral care encourages plaque to form on teeth causing inflammation of surrounding gum tissue.
- Crooked teeth that are difficult to clean.
- Smoking and chewing tobacco -Poor nutrition including Vitamin C deficiency.
- Genetics.
- Dry mouth due to medications.
- Acid reflux and heartburn.
- Hormonal changes at puberty, pregnancy, menopause, birth control treatments.
- Low immune system due to cancer , HIV etc….
- Certain drugs life for epileptic seizures.
Symptoms of diseased Gums and healthy Gums
Inflamed Gums
- Swollen and puffy red gums that bleed easily while brushing and flossing.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperature.
- Pain in chewing or biting.
- Ulcers ,sores which do not heal in a week.
- A bad taste or persistent bad mouth order.
- Receding gums.
Healthy Gums
- Firm gums.
- Pale and pink.
- Fitted tightly around the teeth.
How can we stop or reverse the process of Gingivitis
- Maintaining good oral hygiene i.e. brushing twice a day, flossing the teeth.
- Eat healthy i.e. diet rich in fibre(fruits n vegetables) and low sugar diet.
- Regular Dental checkups every 6 months.
- If any medical condition then cleaning is required more often.
- Dental X-Rays annually.
How to treat Gum Disease
- Scaling-Cleaning at Dental Clinic-Remove tartar from above or below gum line (Tartar is plaque that hardens under the gumline which collects bacteria.
- Fluoride treatment.
- Antibiotics- Doctor may suggest antibiotics in case of an infection like tooth abscess.
- Sealants-The protective coatings that are placed on the back teeth to help prevent cavities.
- Probiotics for digestive health.
