Survey
* Your assessment is very important for improving the workof artificial intelligence, which forms the content of this project
* Your assessment is very important for improving the workof artificial intelligence, which forms the content of this project
Global Dental Art December 2010 Stop gingivitis before it becomes a serious problem! Chronic gingivitis is a common condition. In fact, it affects over 50% of the population. If treated, the prognosis for those who have gingivitis is good. Gingivitis is painless so how can someone detect it? Healthy gums don’t bleed so if there is bleeding when brushing or flossing, it’s a first indication of gum inflammation or gingivitis. What causes gingivitis? Gingivitis is caused mainly by plaque, tartar, bacteria, and inappropriate fillings but also by vitamin deficiency, emotional stress, chronic inflammation in the body and some other diseases and particular conditions. The bacteria present in the plaque and tartar produce toxins that irritate the gums. How can someone prevent plaque and tartar? Everybody has plaque in their mouth; it is formed within 24 hours with the bacteria already present in our mouth. When those bacteria are not bothered, they agglomerate and become plaque. Plaque is soft and can be removed by brushing and flossing. When it’s not removed properly, the minerals present in our saliva contribute to its crystallization and it becomes tartar. At this stage, brushing and flossing can not remove it. A regular visit (at least every 6 months) to your dentist will help you control the accumulation of plaque and tartar and therefore reduce the risks of gingivitis. Oral hygienists agree that a person who takes care of their teeth by simply brushing and flossing as instructed and visits a dentist every three to six months, can avoid severe consequences of gum disease. When gingivitis is not treated, it will progress to periodontal disease. At this point, the inflammation is not only on the gums but in the bone which supports the teeth. Gingivitis, when combined with receding gums, periodontal disease, and other conditions, can create serious health problems. Gingivitis almost always leads to bad breath, a serious social problem for many people. An unhealthy, bacteria-filled mouth can lead to a host of problems throughout the body, including heart disease, diabetes and blood infection. The bacteria from the mouth travel to other parts of the body via the bloodstream, causing widespread inflammation. With gum disease there is no denying that there are many severe consequences to one’s health if the issue is not corrected. With that in mind a person should consider changing or adjusting their dental habits in order to avoid future gum disease. Curing Gingivitis Healthy Gums Curing gingivitis requires a regular and thorough oral hygiene regimen. A simple warm water and salt solution before or after brushing and flossing is mildly effective in curing gingivitis. But the most effective preventative measure is the removal of plaque deposits on the teeth. When gingivitis is already established we will recommend a specific protocol prepared especially for you. It will be our pleasure to provide you the necessary instructions and recipes needed to improve your particular gum situation. Gingivitis Causes of Gum Disease, Gingivitis Long term plaque is the main cause of gums bleeding or periodontal disease. Unremoved plaque transforms into hard deposit of minerals, called tartar, at the base of the tooth. This causes inflammation of the gums and their swelling. Moderate periodontitis Other causes are diabetes, pregnancy and puberty, smoking or chewing of tobacco, clenching or grinding of teeth, stress, poor oral hygiene and poor nutrition. Certain medications such as birth control pills can cause gingivitis. Symptoms of Gingivitis/ Periodontal disease Severe periodontitis Localized periodontitis Bone loss There is usually no early signs and discomfort in gingivitis or periodontal disease. You should observe the following: 1. Swollen puffy gums, 2. Bright red or red-purple or shiny gums or redness around the teeth 3. Pus between the gums 4. Tender gums 5. Gums bleed easily during brushing or flossing 6. Gums painless but are tender when touched 7. Blood on toothbrush 8. Loose teeth 9. Visible deposits of plaque and tartar at the base of the teeth 10. Mouth sores 11. Persistent bad breath 12. Floss doesn’t smell good when brought close to your nose after flossing Prevention of gum disease 1. It can be prevented by taking good care of your teeth. 2. Brush teeth thoroughly at least twice a day (after your meal) with a soft bristle toothbrush and a toothpaste with natural ingredients (some chemicals in commercial toothpaste can lead to chronic inflammation of soft tissues). 3. Floss the teeth once a day to remove food particles in-between the teeth preferably before you go to sleep. 4. Avoid use of tobacco and sweets. 5. Visit the dentist regularly for dental checkups. Besides plaque, your life style can cause gum disease. Your body’s immunity system must be strong. Exercising on a regular basis and eating well by staying away from refined food is the best way to keep your immunity strong. Global Dental . Art . Dentaire Global 4571, rue Sherbrooke Ouest Westmount, Québec H3Z 1E9 Tél: 514-934-0222 Sans-frais: 1-877-934-0222 Télécopieur: 514-933-4348 [email protected] www.drcarlbenoit.com Anna Santoro : Responsable de la Communication