Gum Disease
Houston, the Woodlands, Kingwood, Spring, and Conroe, Texas
Gum disease, or gingivitis, can be a frightening phrase to hear, and an unwelcome topic to discuss, even when our gums are healthy. However, understanding gum disease is the first big step to fighting it.
Causes of Gingivitis
Gingivitis, or gum disease, is caused by the buildup of tartar on the teeth around and under the gum line. This buildup plays host to dangerous bacteria over time that not only erodes the teeth and gums, but creates pockets between them that can catch debris from food and drink, accelerating tooth decay.
The type of food you eat does not directly cause gum disease, unless you are suffering from undernourishment. It is the buildup of tartar over time which is the major contributor to gum disease. Tartar cannot be removed, even by following good dental hygiene such as vigorous brushing and flossing every day. In fact, brushing your teeth too hard can potentially injure your gums. The only way to remove tartar and dangerous bacteria from under your gum line is through professional dental cleanings.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
The main symptom of gum disease is inflammation of the gums; however, there are other symptoms which should prompt a dental visit as soon as they are noticed. The primary symptoms of gum disease include:
- Swelling of the gums
- Gum sensitivity
- Bleeding gums
- Mouth sores
- Shiny gums
- Severe halitosis
- Red or purple gums
- Gum pockets
Long-Term Effects of Gum Disease
Some long-term effects of gum disease are more self-apparent than others, but all of them can be very serious and negatively affect your quality of life. They include:
- Tooth weakness
- Oral pain
- Periodontitis
- Inability to chew
- Tooth loss
There is data indicating that gum disease can negatively affect other areas of your body as well, and may:
- Increase the complaint of aches and pains
- Cause stomach disorders
- If the bacteria is allowed to languish, even cause heart problems
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of gum disease, do not hesitate to visit your periodontist immediately. The potential hazards of allowing gum disease to go untreated are too serious to ignore.
To learn more about gum disease or to schedule your initial consultation with Dr, Young, please contact our Houston general dentistry office today at Woodlands Premier Dentistry, keeping gums healthy in the areas of the Woodlands, Houston, and Spring, Texas, for more than a decade.
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