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What Is periodontal (gum) disease?
Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissues surrounding
and supporting the teeth. It is a major cause
of tooth loss in adults. Because periodontal (gum) disease
is usually painless, however, you may not
know you have it.
Periodontal (gum) disease is caused by plaque, a sticky
film of bacteria that constantly forms on
the teeth. These bacteria create toxins that
can damage the gums.
In the early stage of periodontal (gum) disease, called
gingivitis, the gums can become red, swollen
and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease
is still reversible and can usually be eliminated
by daily brushing and flossing.
In the more advanced stages of periodontal (gum) disease,
called periodontitis, the gums and bone that
support the teeth can become seriously damaged.
The teeth can become loose, fall out or have
to be removed by a dentist.
What are the signs of periodontal (gum) disease?
If you notice any of the following signs
of periodontal (gum) disease, see your dentist immediately:
- gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
- red, swollen or tender gums
- gums that
have pulled away from the teeth
- bad breath
that doesn't go away
- pus between your
teeth and gums
- loose teeth
- a change in the way your
teeth fit together when you bite
- a change
in the fit of partial dentures
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Normal, healthy gums
Healthy gums and bone anchor teeth
firmly in place. |
Periodontitis
Unremoved, plaque hardens into
calculus (tartar). As plaque and calculus
continue to build up, the gums begin to
recede (pull away) from the teeth, and
pockets form between the teeth and gums. |
Advanced periodontitis
The gums recede farther, destroying more bone and the periodontal ligament. Teeth — even
healthy teeth — may become loose and need to be extracted. |
How can I prevent periodontal (gum) disease?
The good news is that you can help prevent
periodontal (gum) disease by taking good care of your teeth
every day and having regular dental checkups.
Here's how to keep your teeth and gums healthy:
Brush your
teeth well twice a day.
This removes
the film of bacteria from the teeth. Be
sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush
that is in good condition. Toothpastes
and mouth rinses containing fluoride strengthen
the teeth and help prevent decay. Choose
products that bear the American Dental
Association Seal of Acceptance, your assurance
that they have met the ADA's standards
for safety and effectiveness. The ADA reviews
all advertising claims for any product
bearing the Seal. The Seal on a product
is an assurance for consumers and dentists
against misleading or untrue statements
concerning a product's safety and effectiveness.
Clean between your teeth every day.
Cleaning
between your teeth with floss or interdental
cleaners removes bacteria and food particles
from between the teeth, where a toothbrush
can't reach. Early periodontal (gum) disease can often
be reversed by daily brushing and flossing.
If you use interdental cleaners, ask your
dentist how to use them properly, to avoid
injuring your gums.
Eat a balanced diet.
Choose a variety of
foods from the basic food groups, such
as breads, cereals and other grain products;
fruits; vegetables; meat, poultry and fish;
and dairy products, such as milk, cheese
and yogurt. Limit between-meal snacks.
Visit your dentist regularly.
It is important
to have regular dental checkups, and professional
cleaning is essential to prevent periodontal
diseases. See also: Cleaning Your Teeth and Gums
Please note: The ADA does not provide specific answers
to individual questions about fees, dental problems, conditions, diagnoses,
treatments or proposed treatments, or requests for research. Information about
dental referrals, complaints and a variety of dental procedures may
be found here. You can also refer to our Frequently
Asked Questions page for answers to common questions.
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