Carlingford Dentist
Our gums and jawbones are part of our dental health, and their upkeep is taken seriously by dentists. If we suffer a gum infection then our teeth will suffer too. This is something to avoid.
There are several levels of gum disease, but the are divided into two main types – Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease (periodontitis).
Gingivitis
This is a milder form of bacterial infection, though it is serious enough and has the potential to get very serious. Our gums can get infected if we neglect to brush and floss. And of course this negligence tends to badly compromise our teeth as well. The gums infected with gingivitis will be discoloured (dark red or pale pink) and tend to be sore and prone to bleeding.
Gingivitis can be reversed with regular brushing, flossing and use of mouthwash, though the infection will persist for a month or two. Anti-bacterial mouthwash will greatly help fight the infection.
Left untreated the gingivitis will probably grow worse, and turn to periodontitis.
Periodontal Disease (Periodontitis)
Periodontitis is a severe gum infection. It included both the bacteria of gingivitis and and additional, more persistent bacterial strain. It is difficult to treat and will soon lead to the loss of bone and teeth.
Periodontitis will not cure itself, and cannot be cured by brushing, flossing and regular mouthwash. it must be treated by the dentist, often by referral to a specialist called a periodontist.
Periodontal disease requires antibiotics, prescription mouthwash and sometimes dental surgery because of lost bone. The sooner it is treated the less severe the damage.
Other concerns:
The bacteria involved in gum disease has been linked to other health problems such as old age dementia and heart disease. It it believed that gum infections in middle age greatly raises the likelihood of these problems latter in life.
Carlingford Dental
Regular Dental checkups will catch problems before they become too serious. Have any concerns, including gum discolouration and bleeding, checked by the dentist.
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