Faqs On Stopping Gum Disease

If you have healthy gums, they will look firm and pink. If they are red or swollen, there is a good chance you mat be developing gingivitis. Another sign is bad breath which will not go away. That is ususally the first sign that you have a problem. Many people ask how to stop gum disease. You should be warned that gum disease is a silent enemy and because it develops over time, you may not be aware that you have a problem.

You may think that gum disease is an older person's condition but it is also a problem for more and more younger people. Teeth are supported by the gums and bone tissue. Once these are damaged or compromised in any way then teeth are likely to fall out or will have to be removed by the dentist. Generally, early detection can determine whether or a not a person can be cured with success.

If your gum disease is serious, your dental professional may refer you to a specialist called a periodontist. In its early stages, gum disease is called gingivitis. Gingivitis sometimes, but not always, worsens into a more severe form of periodontal disease called periodontitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can usually be reversed with daily brushing and flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist.

What are the causes of gum disease? Plaque, which is a sticky substance, will build up on the teeth and if left, will become tartar which is a problem for smokers. Hundreds of bacteria are usually present in plaque. Smokers are going to suffer a lot more with the build up of tartar on their teeth and around the neck of the tooth. Other causes are chemiotherapy, oral contraceptives and bridges which do not fit well anymore.

The best preventions against gum disease are brushing twice a day, flossing daily. Regular dental cleanings every six months or at least once a year. Regular dental care is extremely important in helping to keep your mouth healthy. As bone loss increases, your teeth may lose so much support that they need to be removed to preserve the overall health of your mouth.

Recently, a Canadian study on red wine found that the polyphenols it contains may help to preserve gum tissue. Even antacids have a component in them which can also help bone formation and gum tissue. Another study found that melatonin will stimulate the body's immune system which s very important in keeping your gums healthy.

Antibacterial rinses together with an antibiotic are sometimes prescribed by the dentist when gingivitis looks as if it may become periodontitis. Normally,however, toothpaste containing fluoride and a mouth wash with fluoride are sufficient to keep the gms healthy. It has to be done daily as there are so many bacteria in the mouth which, if they survive can turn to plaque and later tartar which is difficult to remove.

Keeping in good health ,not living too stressful an existence (easier said than done!), and giving up smoking are longer term strategies you can adopt to stop gum disease.