INTRODUCTION TO GUM DISEASE

More teeth are lost each year to gum disease than to decay of the teeth. Hence, gum disease in any form must not be avoided. Gum disease is actually a collective term for the various kinds of diseases that affect gums, causing them to become inflamed. This can bring on various kinds of symptoms such as recession of the gums to expose more of the teeth, bleeding of the gums, painful swelling of the gums and, in the worst case scenario, loss of the tooth that the gum is supposed to cushion and protect.'

There are two main kinds of the gum disease according to dentists' opinions. These are known as gingivitis and periodontitis. Both these conditions cause inflammation of gums due to bacterial infection. If oral hygiene is not maintained, these bacteria multiply within the mouth and with the help of other secretions within the mouth form a film on the teeth which is known as plaque. If the concentration of the plaque increases on the teeth, it can cause a hardened substance known as the tartar which cannot be removed by simple methods. Tartar harbors more bacteria which then proceed to deteriorate the teeth. This is the onset of gum disease.

Gingivitis and periodontitis are actually the same affliction. When the tartar deposition is not so aggravated and when it can be removed by comparatively simple methods, the condition is known as gingivitis. Periodontitis is the advanced form of gingivitis, in which the teeth, the bones underlying the teeth and the tissues present in the gums are all susceptible to undergo deterioration. At this stage, treatment of the condition becomes extremely difficult.

Gum disease in any form is an extremely serious condition and should in no way be neglected. The slightest indication of a gum problem must be brought to the notice of the dentist as soon as possible so that further deterioration of the gum and hence the tooth can be controlled.

Zahnimplantate bei Kindern
Panikattacken beim Zahnarzt
Angst vor dem Zahnarzt
Bleaching von Zaehnen
Mundgeruch