Basic Information-what Causes Gum Disease?

Do you suffer with red, bleeding or infected gums? If you do, this could indicate that you are at some stage of gum disease. The symptoms include receding gums, chronic bad breath, sore teeth, sore or bleeding gums, partial dentures that do not fit correctly, loose teeth, inflamed gum line that is sometimes red and swollen and recurring gum infections.You already know the symptoms but the question is, what causes gum disease to happen and what can you do about it.

This describes a process where bacteria deep in your gum line destroy the gum tissue and eventually the teeth and supporting bone structure itself. These bacteria may contribute to system infections through the body and is connected to heart disease. The names that describe various stages of gum disease are gingivitis, periodontal disease and periodontitis.

There are many reasons for sore and bleeding gums. First, bleeding gums can be one of the signs as well as gingivitis. Bleeding happens when brushing the teeth or eating. It is imperative that this be treated, otherwise it progresses to periodontitis and finally tooth loss. Too vigorous brushing can cause gums to bleed, so it is important to learn the proper brushing technique. Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can also result in bleeding gums.

Smoking also answers the question on what causes gum disease lately. Not only does smoking stain teeth but it also damages gums by reducing the blood supply. Tobacco can also have an irritating effect on the gums. Smokers have more calculus on their teeth then non-smokers which can cause bleeding gums. An increased level of hormones can also cause the gums to become red and bleed. Gum tissue is embedded with hormone receptors. If related hormone levels rise above their normal level, this can cause an increase in the fluid level in the gum tissue which in turn causes red, tender and swollen gums. Vitamin K deficiency is another cause of bleeding gums. Certain drugs play a part in causing gums to bleed. These include oral contraceptives, antidepressants, nasal sprays and anticoagulants.

In counteracting bleeding, infected gums, the importance of oral care hygiene should never be underestimated. Cure gum disease by proper brushing and flossing, along with a nutritional diet is of paramount importance. Don't use commercial products that do more harm than good. The bacteria reside in the deep recesses of your gum line, therefore an effective treatment must deal with the problem at its source, or it will fail. You must find something to deal effectively with the bacteria and only then will you win the battle against these symptoms.

There are a number of home remedies which are worth a try. The first is to drink a glass of fresh lemon juice after brushing. You could also add a pinch of soda each time you brush and floss. Flossing immediately following every meal and after brushing can also have a good effect.

However, if your symptoms persist, it is time to visit the dentist, as a thorough examination of your mouth is the only way to properly tell you what causes gum disease if you have one and develop a plan to combat the problem. The dentist will check for the symptoms of gingivitis and may also examine the amount of plaque in the oral cavity. He will also look for signs of periodontitis using x-rays or periodontal probing. Proper care of your teeth will benefit your overall health, as good oral health can reduce the risk of cardiac problems.