Gum Disease in Brampton
Our mouths are full of bacteria. Bacteria, along with food particles forms a sticky film called plaque (tartar). Brushing and flossing help remove most of the plaque. If all the plaque is not removed, it hardens and forms a substance called Calculus. Only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove calculus. If plaque and calculus are not removed, they can lead to periodontal (gum) disease.
- Gingivitis – Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease. It is simply swelling of the gums where the gums become red, puffy and can bleed easily. It can usually be reversed with daily brushing and flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. This form of gum disease does not include any loss of bone and tissue that hold the teeth in place.
- Periodontitis – when gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to "periodontitis". Periodontitis is swelling of the gums along with loss of bone around the teeth. In periodontitis, gums pull away from the teeth and form spaces called "pockets" that may become infected with bacteria. If periodontitis is left untreated, further bone loss, mobility of teeth, and ultimately loss of teeth may occur.
There are numerous risk factors for gum disease. Few common ones are smoking, diabetes, medications, hormones or genetics.
Prevention:
- Brush your teeth twice a day (with fluoridated toothpaste)
- Floss every day, with proper flossing technique
- Visit the dentist routinely for a check-up and professional cleaning
- Do not smoke
