HealthyLife Articles

Tag: gingivitis

  • Gum (Periodontal) Disease

    Dental & Mouth Concerns

    Image of women sitting in dental chair shaking hands with the dentist.

    Signs, Symptoms & Causes

    Gum (periodontal) diseases include:

    Gingivitis. The gums are swollen due to bacteria from plaque and tartar on the teeth. With gingivitis, the gums are red and bleed easily.

    Periodontitis. This is swelling around the tooth. It occurs when gingivitis is not treated. With periodontitis, pockets form between the gums and teeth. These expose teeth at the gum line. When left untreated, plaque grows below the gum line. Gums, bones, and connective tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. This can cause permanent teeth to separate from each other and loosen. Teeth may even need to be removed.

    Treatment

    Gum disease should be treated by a periodontist or a dentist who treats this problem. Material called tartar can form, even when normal brushing and flossing are done. The dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar on a regular basis. Treatment may also include:

    *  Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing).

    *  Medications.

    *  Surgical treatments. These include flap surgery and bone and tissue grafts.

    Questions to Ask

    Self-Care / Prevention

    *  See your dentist as often as advised. Follow his or her advice for medication, teeth brushing and flossing and using other dental instruments.

    *  Don’t smoke. If you smoke, quit.

    *  Eat a balanced diet.

    *  Limit sugary foods. When you eat sweets, do so with meals, not in between meals. Finish a meal with cheese. This tends to neutralize acids that form.

    *  Include foods with good sources of vitamin A and vitamin C daily. Vitamin A is found in cantaloupe, broccoli, spinach, winter squash, and dairy products fortified with vitamin A. Good sources of vitamin C are oranges, tomatoes, potatoes, green peppers, and broccoli.

    Healthier at Home book by the American Institute for Preventive Medicine. www.HealthyLife.com. All rights reserved.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • 10 Dental Problems And What To Do About Them

    SELF-CARE CORNER

    Image of dentist.

    1.Bad breath:For fresh breath, brush twice a day, floss daily, drink plenty of water, see your dentist regularly, and don’t smoke. If bad breath persists, talk to your dentist or doctor.

    2.Tooth decay:When cavities are left untreated, they can get worse and lead to infections and loss of teeth. Get cavities filled quickly to prevent more extensive dental work and serious health problems.

    3.Gum disease:Without treatment, gum disease gets worse and can lead to tooth loss. Symptoms include bleeding, swollen, tender, and red gums, but it often has no signs in the early stages.

    4.Stained teeth:Some medications, foods, and drinks can yellow or discolor teeth. Many dentists offer whitening treatments that can help.

    5.Mouth sores:A salt water rinse can help with canker sores or irritation from braces or other dental appliances. But, if sores last a week or more, your dentist should take a look.

    6.Tooth sensitivity:Special toothpaste or dental procedures, such as crowns, can help relieve sensitivity to hot or cold. Look for the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of acceptance on products before buying.

    7.Enamel erosion:Acidic foods and drinks can wear away at the tooth’s protective enamel over time. This can lead to tooth sensitivity and discoloration. Drinking water and milk instead of soda can help avoid this problem.

    8.Wisdom teeth:Third molars, or wisdom teeth, often need to be removed during the teen or young adult years. If the jaw doesn’t have enough space for them, they can crowd or damage the other teeth.

    9.Oral cancer:Cancer of the mouth, lips or gums affects about 50,000 Americans every year. Symptoms may include sores, patches, lumps, or pain in the mouth. If you notice any of these signs, contact your dentist or doctor.

    10.Teeth grinding:Teeth grinding can lead to cracks and damage to the teeth enamel. A special guard made by your dentist can help protect your teeth. Beware of mouth guards sold over the counter as they can fit improperly and become a choking hazard when you sleep.

    Even if you don’t have any tooth pain or other symptoms, it’s important to see your dentist every six months. Regular checkups with your dentist can prevent or treat these problems so you can keep a healthy, bright smile for life.

    Sources: American Dental Association, Oral Health Foundation

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Avoid Gum Disease With These Tips

    SELF-CARE CORNER

    Image of variety of cleaning supplies.

    Are you wondering if “a little blood” on your toothbrush is a reason to be concerned? It could indicate the early stages of gum disease, which can lead to serious dental problems later. Almost half of adults over age 30 have gum disease. Plus, 70 percent of people over age 65 have it, too.

    The good news is, you can take steps now to prevent it from getting worse. This could save you from tooth loss or gum problems.

    What causes gum disease?

    Gum disease (“periodontitis”) happens when plaque-a sticky film of bacteria-builds up on teeth and hardens. At first, this can cause gums that look red, swollen or that bleed (“gingivitis”). As it gets worse, the gums can pull away from the teeth. This can cause infections in the mouth. The infection can lead to bone loss in the mouth and eventually, tooth loss. Gum disease may also be linked to other health problems, including diabetes and heart disease.

    Keep gums healthy

    A few tips can help you avoid gum disease and keep your smile feeling and looking great for years to come:

    *  Brush twice a day. Brush with fluoride toothpaste for at least 2 minutes each time and get all surfaces and sides of teeth. Also brush the tongue. Be sure you replace your toothbrush at least every six months, or sooner if it shows signs of wear or fraying.

    *  Floss once a day. Plaque hides between teeth, where the brush can’t reach. Remove it each day with floss and you can avoid plaque buildup that hardens and turns to tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist.

    *  Don’t smoke. More than 60 percent of smokers have gum disease. This is one of the many reasons quitting is important for your health.

    *  See your dentist every six months. A dentist can remove any plaque or tartar and will check the health of your gums. They can work with you to reverse gum disease in the early stages.

    *  Ask about mouthwash. Some mouthwashes can help reduce plaque and tooth decay. Those at higher risk for gum disease may wish to talk to their dentist about the best options.

    If your gums look red or tend to bleed, see your dentist. Early treatment can save your gums and teeth. Even if they are in great shape, regular visits to the dentist will help you keep them that way. Your smile will thank you!

    Sources: National Institutes of Health, American Academy of Periodontology

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine