How to Keep Your Gums and Teeth Healthy,,,

How to Keep Your Gums and Teeth Healthy,,, by _ShAnE_StArK_ 2016/02/04 19:30
Brushing and flossing your teeth isn't hard to do.
And doing both properly can help prevent gum
disease and tooth loss.
Gum disease is caused by bacteria found in
plaque and tartar. Plaque is a sticky film that
forms on the teeth and is mostly comprised of
bacteria, mucus, food, and other particles. When
plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar,
which gives a home to bacteria, according to the
American Dental Association (ADA). Bacteria in
plaque and tartar cause inflammation of the
gums, which is known as gingivitis. Tartar can
only be removed by a dental hygienist or dentist.
Gum disease has 3 stages:
Gingivitis. This early stage is characterized by
red, swollen, tender gums that bleed easily. If
caught early, the condition can often be
reversed on its own with proper brushing and
flossing.
Mild to moderate periodontitis. The next stage is
characterized by increased inflammation and
bleeding around the tooth. It happens when
bacterial poisons in plaque and your own body's
defenses start to break down the gum
attachment to the tooth. This causes the gums
to pull away from the teeth and form pockets of
infected material. Early loss of bone around the
teeth may be evident. Treatment at this stage is
critical to prevent further loss of bone and
loosening of teeth.
Advanced periodontitis. This is characterized by
further deepening of gum pockets and heavy
destruction of bone that holds teeth in place. At
this stage, teeth may become so loose that they
need to be removed if periodontal treatment
doesn't restore bone support.
Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease
usually appear when the condition is advanced.
Signs and symptoms are:
Bad breath that lasts
Red, swollen, tender gums
Receding gums (gums that pull away from the
teeth)
Pain when chewing
Loose or sensitive teeth....