About 60-70 percent of people suffer from gum disease but are completely unaware of the situation. It is a result of poor oral health and hygiene. What results is various forms of periodontal and gum infections that can prove to be fatal in the wrong run.
What is Gum Disease?
In simple terms gum disease is inflammation and infection caused by the growing bacteria in the mouth that can destroy the delicate oral tissues, as well as lead to decay of the teeth. Often the remaining food particles in the teeth crevices take the form of plaque. Over time this becomes tarter and gets deposited in the tooth enamel. It is a stubborn attack on the teeth and also leads to various gum infections.
Gingivitis is the most common of gum infections. The gum gets inflamed and is sensitive to touch. In addition the gums start bleeding even while merely brushing of the teeth. The infection in its worst form can pass down through the food pipe into the mouth, and pay havoc with the digestion system. Often serious gum infections can take the shape of oral cancer and prove to be fatal.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
The presence of blood on your toothbrush or fingers, or even with the slightest of touch inducing pain can signify gingivitis or other gum problems. Over a period of time there can be mouth sores as well. These are indicators of gingivitis and other forms of gum infection, and would best be diagnosed by a dentist at the earliest possible.
Tips to Help Prevent Gum Disease
To avoid gingivitis or any other form of gum infections, it is always important to make sure that you brush and floss every day, and after every major meal. Most of us finish of the process after brushing and flossing but taking it a step further by using a mouthwash after brushing and flossing. This not only ensures freshness of breath, but also reduces the risk of gum disease. It is also important to keep a watch over your diet. A diet with plenty of sugar can encourage the growth of bacteria in your mouth, as well as be the cause of cavities.