Periodontology: prevention of gum disease

Periodontal disorder is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. It affects two thirds of patients older than 18 years and 90% of older people. Bacterial plaque is the conclusive cause, and possibly the only one, for a periodental pathology to unfold.

The calcification of the bacterial plaque , what is called tartar , is solved with a good oral hygiene. The accumulation of tartar in the teeth contributes to the resistance of the bacterial plaque and ends up irritating and inflaming the gum. That is, bacterial plaque alters the normal structure of the gum, weakening it and making it easier for bacteria to pass into it and inflame it causing gingivitis. This disorder affects 75% of minors.

The routine of maintaining proper dental hygiene is the main weapon to prevent irritation of gums. The periodic visit to the dentist will allow to detect the areas affected by the bacterial plaque and its next elimination. When gingivitis becomes severe and acute it is necessary to use antibiotics and rinses that will help to suppress the plaque.

It is very important to treat gingivitis on time, since it is the disease prior to periodontitis, previously called pyorrhea. This problem causes the progressive destruction of the bone that supports the affected tooth, ending in a tooth loss if it does not receive a cure.

Conditions or infections of the gums can harm people without noticing any pain before. The symptoms of periodental disease are: redness of the gum, appearance of pus with secretion (abscesses) and bad breath, minimal appearance of blood when brushing, increase of the dental sensation when cold, reduction of the gums with sensation of teeth more long, growth of gaps between teeth and mobility.