Gum disease - it is a very common disorder. Sometimes it proceeds in such a gentle manner that substantially does not cause symptoms. However, any gum disease must be treated as soon as possible, otherwise it can spill over into a much more severe.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of gum disease may be;
• Swollen, reddened gums;
• Increased sensitivity of the gums;
• In some cases - to remove the gums away from the teeth;
• Frequent bleeding from the gums after brushing or floss;
• Change the color of the gums from a healthy pink to dark red;
• Bad breath.

Dentists recommend regularly examine your teeth and mouth to detect any problems before the onset of symptoms. If the symptoms of gum disease appeared, should see a specialist as soon as possible.

Causes

The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene Oral hygiene - not only in the dentist's chair Which contributes to the formation of dental plaque - a sticky substance consisting mainly of bacteria. Plaque is formed by reaction of starches and sugars with bacteria that normally live in the mouth. Plaque must be removed daily, as the newly formed very quickly - usually within 24 hours. If plaque stays on the teeth longer than two or three days, it hardens to form tartar, which can serve as a shield for the bacteria. From tartar can not get rid of at home - it requires a professional teeth cleaning.

The longer plaque and stone remains on the teeth, the more they irritate the gums, causing them to become inflamed and bleed easily.

Risk factors

The following factors can contribute to gum disease:

• Poor oral hygiene;
• Smoking;
• Diabetes;
• Some viral and fungal infections;
• Dry mouth;
• Fluctuations in hormonal levels;
• Malnutrition.

Complications

If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis Periodontitis - a serious complication of pulpitis   - A serious disease that sometimes leads to tooth loss. Periodontitis and other oral problems that can result from inflammation of the gums, for yet unknown reasons, may have a negative impact on health in general. In addition, women with such disorders, there is a high probability of premature birth and the birth of a child with too low birth weight than women with healthy gums.

Diagnostics

Usually dentists diagnose gum disease based on symptoms, which describes the patient as well as the result of examination of the teeth, gums and tongue. For the diagnosis may be sufficient characteristics such as the presence of tartar Plaque - why it should be removed?   Beauty and gums.

If the cause of gum disease is not completely clear, the dentist may recommend a medical examination.

Treatment

Prompt treatment usually allows you to cope with the symptoms of gum disease and prevent further progression of the disease. The treatment program may include:

• Professional teeth cleaning, to remove all plaque and calculus;
• Instructing the patient regarding further care and dental hygiene;
• Regular examinations and professional teeth cleaning in the future.

During the first professional cleaning after the detection of gum disease doctor removes tartar with special dental instruments. This procedure can cause very unpleasant, especially if your gums have become very sensitive, or if formed a large amount of tartar.

Typically, after a cleaning gum disease goes, if the patient takes care of his teeth as recommended by the doctor.

Prevention

To prevent gum disease in the future must adhere to the basic rules of dental care: brushing teeth How to brush your teeth: interesting facts   brush and paste not less than twice a day, at least once a day, brushing teeth with dental floss. Furthermore, once a 6-12 months recommended professional tooth cleaning.

It is important to develop the habit from childhood to observe the rules of oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene can cause serious health problems that extend far beyond the teeth and gums. The basis of oral care is not only the cleaning of the teeth, but proper nutrition Proper nutrition - the basic precepts of healthy food .

Brushing

The teeth should be brushed at least twice a day. Use a soft bristle brush and toothpaste that contains fluoride. A toothbrush head Toothbrushes - make no mistake in choosing   It must be small enough to penetrate all parts of the mouth. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes, paying special attention to the gum line. Each time the pure language - it lives approximately half of all bacteria that inhabit the oral cavity. Change your toothbrush every three to four months. According to many studies, electric brushes remove dirt better than ordinary manual brushes.

Ideally, teeth should be cleaned or immediately before a meal, or no earlier than an hour after eating. The reason for this is that in this way can prevent the erosion of the teeth. Many foods contain acids which possess the ability to soften tooth enamel. However, the effect of calcium and other mineral salts contained in the saliva, over time it returns enamel strength. Thus, immediately after eating the enamel is softened, and the brush can easily damage it.

Cleaning the space between the teeth

Floss at least once a day, but better - twice a day. It is necessary that remove plaque that accumulate between the teeth.

If you do not know how to use dental floss - a quick tutorial. Dental floss is sold in pharmacies, it looks like an ordinary cotton thread (some people really enjoy the usual thread). Cut about 40 cm of thread, wrap the ends around the middle fingers. Tension between the toes of 3-4 cm of thread. Carefully clean the floss between the teeth. Each time, use a clean area of ​​the thread.

If you've never used dental floss, the first time your gums may bleed, but this will take a few days.

Food and beverages

Since sweet foods more than others contributes to the development of dangerous tooth acid, part of oral hygiene is to limit consumption. Furthermore, it should be possible to drink less fizzy drinks and fruit juices. Instead, drink plain water, milk, tea or coffee without sugar. (But be careful, tea and coffee can change the color of tooth enamel).

Other tips

Some experts recommend not less than once a day, use of antiseptic mouthwash to prevent gum disease Gum disease - whether the body to cope without the help of a doctor? . These funds can also be helpful if the toothbrush and toothpaste available - however, they are no substitute for normal cleaning of the teeth.

Smokers are strongly recommended to give up the habit, as it can contribute to the development of many diseases of the gums and teeth.

Regularly, at least once a year, go through dental examination. Many dentists recommend the same frequency to do a professional cleaning of the teeth. This will prevent the formation of tartar Plaque - why it should be removed?   and, as a consequence, the development of many diseases.

Instill the habit to properly care for oral and dental hygiene to your children. It explains in detail why this is needed. What diseases of the teeth and oral cavity can cause various health problems, including heart disorders can be a good motivation for a thorough dental care.