Discover The Warning Signs for Gum Disease
A multitude of bacteria are busy in our mouths, day and night. These bacteria can cause bad breath (halitosis) and periodontal disease (gum disease).
The warning signs of bacterial attack are bleeding gums, swollen gums or unexplained bad breath. If you or someone you love has these symptoms, you need to mobilize the natural defenses present in a healthy mouth. Here's why.
As infection rates increase, more serious complications in your general health can occur. Research has established a meaningful link between gum disease and halitosis, and other disorders, including:
- increased incidence of heart attack or stroke
- low birth-weight babies
- premature delivery for pregnant women
Periodontal disease should be taken very seriously. If you are experiencing mysterious gum flare-ups, swollen gums or bleeding gums, you could have gingivitis or possibly even periodontitis and should see your primary care physician. Be sure to tell your dentist if you are currently being treated for heart problems.
Build up your natural defenses. With gum disease, the best defense against it and bad breath is a good offense.
+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.
Periodontal Disease
Which affliction is more widespread?
Not even winter colds (or Cupid's arrows) strike as many of us as gingivitis - gum disease. As many as 75% of adults will be victimized sometime in their lifetimes.
If this infection could grow on your arm, you'd be horrified. Instead, periodontal disease does its dirty work out of sight: inside your mouth. Left alone, it opens up gaps between gums and teeth. Too soon, you're on your way to losing your teeth entirely.
How can I stop it?
Mouth disease comes from sticky, invisible colonies of bacteria called plaque that live in the crevices between gums and teeth. Left by themselves, these critters organize to do their damage. If they're disorganized at least once every 24 hours, they never get time to recolonize and continue the infection.
Periodontal (gum) disease and gingivitis prevention is a matter of disturbing these bacterial pests daily. That means first brushing your teeth with a soft toothbrush. Then working dental floss down between the margin of your teeth and gums to dislodge plaque colonies that have built up during the day.
So much of your periodontal and gum disease treatment depends on what you're willing to do about your dental health. With vigilant home care and regular exams, together with your periodontist you can beat the statistics.
+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.