Periodontal Disease
Plaque is the main threat to your teeth which can affect gums and the sulcus, the v-shaped crevice just below the gum line. At this stage, the infection is called gingivitis; if it progresses, it’s called periodontitis. Both are forms of periodontal disease.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease include:
Spaces developing between the teeth
Pus between teeth and gums
Loose teeth
Receding gums
Bad breath that won’t go away
Red or swollen gums
Tender or bleeding gums
Painful chewing
The primary reason for periodontal disease is plague. If not removed within 26 hours, plaque turns into tartar, which causes periodontal disease. You can prevent plaque by practicing good oral hygiene - brushing and flossing regularly; visiting the dentist for regular check ups and cleanings; and maintaining a well-balanced diet. Other factors can increase the risk of periodontal disease, including:
Smoking and chewing tobacco as major causes of periodontal disease.
Genetic predisposition.
Hormonal changes in girls/women which can make gums more sensitive and make it easier for gingivitis to develop.
Diabetes.
Stress.
Medications (antidepressants and some heart medicines)
Diseases like cancer or AIDS and their treatments can also affect the health of gums.
Once periodontal disease has been detected, further extension of disease can be prevented with continued care of the mouth at home. Ideally, the mouth should be cleaned after every meal. Dentists suggest brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Gentle movements within the crevices dislodge decay-causing material, and firm strokes over the teeth remove plaque. Flossing is recommended to clear plaque from between teeth. After brushing and flossing, vigorously rinsing the mouth with mouthwash containing an antimicrobial agent can also help eliminate bacterial growth, but mouthwash alone cannot prevent plaque formation. For self-checking, a dental mirror provides a view of the teeth and gums in the back of the mouth.
In advanced cases, a dentist may scrape the affected tissue pockets and apply antiseptics every few months in an effort to kill the bacteria. Should this procedure fail to check the spread of the disease, surgery by a periodontist may be needed to remove deep pockets in the gums. Once the bacteria have been eliminated, good oral hygiene should control the disease.