GUM DISEASE

Did you know that Gum disease is linked to heart disease? Research has shown that people with periodontal disease are twice as likely to develop heart disease which may lead to a heart attack. The gum inflammation of gum disease creates a path for the bacteria in plaque to enter your blood stream. This bacteria travels throughout the body and may be a factor in numerous conditions.

Gum Disease is the most common dental problem experienced by adults. It generally develops slowly, is often painless, and is more apparent in middle age than old age.

Gum disease is usually caused by plaque, an invisible bacterial film that forms on your teeth. If plaque is not removed by brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly for a professional cleaning, it hardens into a substance called tartar (also known as calculus), which cannot be removed by brushing. If you allow tartar to accumulate on your teeth, a bacterial infection may develop below your gum line. This infection leads to bone loss and deep pockets between your teeth, which are not easy to clean. High levels of bacteria can live in these pockets and you will need aggressive cleaning treatments. Unless this infection is treated, it can destroy the gum tissue and bone that support your teeth. Eventually, your teeth will become loose and may fall out.

SIGNS OF PERIODONTAL/GUM DISEASE

Include gums that have receded or are swollen and bleeding. Also the teeth may look longer and have black triangular anesthetic spaces between them. Teeth may also become loose and abscesses may develop in your gums. Patients with periodontal disease will require more frequent cleaning therapies, usually every 3-4 months to be able to maintain gum health. In a small minority of patients, however, keeping gum disease in check is a constant challenge, even though you may have perfect plaque control and little calculus build-up. Referral to a Periodontist may be required.

DECAY

Two types of decay/cavities (also known as caries) tend to be more prevalent in adults: root decay and decay at the edges of the fillings. Years of brushing too hard and the natural effects of aging can cause your gums to recede, exposing the roots of your teeth. These roots have no protective enamel coating and are less resistant to decay than the chewing surfaces of your teeth. Decay can also develop around a filling. When a filling breaks down, the seal between the edge of the filling and your tooth is destroyed, allowing food particles or moisture to be trapped between the edge of the filling and your tooth, promoting decay.

Provided you look after them, your teeth and gums will look good and stay healthy for life.

BAD BREATH

Bad breath is caused by anaerobic bacteria which often collects on the tongue, teeth, throat, and periodontal pockets in the gums and produces volatile sulphur products. A white coating on the tongue is evidence of excessive bacteria.

DRY MOUTH

Dry mouth is caused by medications, exercise, dieting, alcohol or alcohol based mouth rinse, smoking and mouth breathing during sleep creates an environment where bacteria thrive. Also acids in foods such as coffee also decrease oxygen and cause bacteria to thrive.

TREATMENT OF BAD BREATH

* Brush and floss your teeth properly

* Clean your tongue either with a brush or hygiene cleaner

* Drink plenty of water to flush out unwanted bacteria

* Use non alcoholic based mouthwashes

* Chew sugarless gum to stimulate saliva