Gingivitis
Gum disease, also referred to as gingivitis (characterized by the inflammation of the gums) and periodontitis (characterized by a bacterial disease of the gums), occurs when bacteria is allowed to grow and eat away at the soft tissue of the mouth, especially the already sensitive gums. Symptoms of gingivitis can be as minor as slight sensitivity to cold and warm temperatures of food or to severe concerns such as loss of teeth. Gingivitis is the beginning stages of gum disease with periodontal disease being the more advanced incarnation of the illness. Periodontal disease can progress to the point that irreversible damage has been sustained and even if the disease can be reversed there will still be the need for extensive dental work to restore the appearance of a healthy mouth, which may or may not be possible dependent on the amount of gum decay, tooth loss and bone damage sustained throughout the disease.
Gingivitis begins when the bacteria collected in plaque builds up to such a degree that it causes the gums to become inflamed, appearing swollen and red. Other symptoms include bleeding from the gums due to brushing and increased sensations of pain and irritation while brushing, flossing and eating. At this point gingivitis is merely an annoying development that can still be reversed. The teeth have not been affected nor have the gums become too weak or damaged to sustain their hold on the teeth. It is extremely important to begin the reversal process immediately once the beginning signs of gingivitis have come to the patient’s attention. This will help to keep the disease from developing into a much worse state.
If gum disease is allowed to progress to the periodontitis stage then the symptoms will develop into inner layers of the gums and bones pulling away from the teeth and forming pockets in the tissue. These pockets become hiding places for food particles and other oral bacterial debris, greatly increasing the risks for infection of the soft tissue of the mouth and of the teeth. Having a bacterial infection growing within the gum line can cause major health hazards and, if allowed, the infection may spread to other parts of the body as well. As the body wars against the growing infection bone and connective tissues that hold the teeth in place begin to erode. As this happens the teeth become looser and tooth loss can occur. Gum disease is currently the leading cause of adult tooth loss. Often sufferers become aware of their symptoms before the disease is irreversible but they allow themselves to let their embarrassment color their decisions and do not seek help until it is too late to correct the extensive damage.
The best way to fight against the onset of gum disease is to take preventative steps for oral health. Brushing teeth daily is a must, especially in the mornings and before bed, as these are the times when bacteria will begin to become corrosive. Flossing is another important step to eliminating as much bacterial and plaque build up in the mouth as is possible. For those already experiencing the beginning stages of gingivitis brushing and flossing may seem painful but the only way to reverse the disease is to cleanse the mouth as thoroughly as possible until the bacteria is no longer infectious. Brush and floss softly but thoroughly.
Try to avoid salty or sharp food items while the gums are repairing themselves. Chips and similar food items can cut the overly sensitive gums and cause increased pain or discomfort during necessary daily brushing and flossing sessions. It is also recommended that sugary beverages and foods are avoided while healing is taking place as these foods are damaging to the overall health of the mouth and instigate greater bacterial growth. There are instances when a family history of gum disease may be a contributing factor and it is important for a gum disease sufferer to keep their dental health professional apprised of their family history and their current concerns. Regular visits with a dentist will help to alleviate the symptoms of gingivitis in the hopes that nothing more severe will develop. Through proper care gum disease can be beaten and it is important to follow all the daily dental health steps that have been recommended by a dental health professional.
