Gingivitis - The Problem To Watch Out For…
If you find blood in your sink, even after brushing your teeth gently, you could be suffering from gingivitis. This is an inflammation of the gums caused by ‘bad’ bacteria that live under dental plaque.
It is found between the gaps in the gums and the teeth and on the teeth as well. Additional symptoms of gingivitis may include but are not exclusive to a bright red or shiny appearance of the gums, receding gums, and gums that are tender when touched.
Gingivitis is a periodontal (gum) disease. This infection is able to destroy the supporting tissue of the teeth if it is left unattended. Unfortunately, if things get worse, a person’s teeth may become loose. After things have gone to far, teeth can come out. This is sad because we don’t currently have a way to replace living teeth.
There is mounting evidence from medical research that gum disease may make people more prone to heart disease, some cancers, stroke and other disease. Our bodies were not made to respond to long term inflammatory problems which is what gum disease can often mean to a person who doesn’t know they have it or is unable to rid themselves of it.
The dental plaque accumulates in the gaps between the teeth and gums and after a while forms calculus. This means apart from a normal brushing routine, you seek the professional assistance of a dental hygienist or dentist to remove the plaque and tartar by professional cleaning.
Professional dental cleaning is normally recommended every 6 months. With gum disease, it may be recommended twice as often. Sometimes, it may even be important to get a professional cleaning every two months.
If you exhibit any of the signs of gum disease, you should take action, including contacting a periodontist for advice, diagnosis and treatment. Try to avoid alcohol mouthwash. Periodontists have more advanced training and experience with periodontal disease and gum tissue health.