Periodontal diseases include a group of diseases which affect the tooth-supporting structures within the mouth such as the periodontal ligament, gingiva etc.. It can vary from a simple gum inflammation to those diseases that cause significant damage to the bones and soft tissues supporting the teeth.

Take note

The most common of these diseases include plaque-induced diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. The symptoms that could identify these diseases are, red and bleeding gums, loose and sensitive teeth, pain when chewing food, persistent bad breath, and receding gums. The germs in the mouth unite with mucus and other particles to form plaque on the teeth. Regular brushing and flossing rids the teeth of the tacky and colorless material.

However, any plaque that’s not removed hardens and forms tartar, which can’t be removed by brushing alone. It requires specialist help from a dentist to remove this tartar. Many different factors contribute to gum disease. Smoking plays a very important role in developing gum disease. Illness conditions such as diabetes, AIDS, cancer increase the risk of gum ailments.

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Many over-the-counter and prescription drugs lower saliva production. Saliva has a protective role in the mouth, and reduced levels make the gums more susceptible to infections. Hormonal changes and genetic makeup also play their role in gum health. The plaque-forming germs in the mouth cause the teeth to become inflamed and red. This state of the gums is called gingivitis. Bleeding of the gums also happens when left untreated.

Gingivitis is a really mild form of gum disease that is easily adjusted with regular home oral hygiene and good professional cleaning treatment by a dental hygienist or a dentist. Gingivitis doesn’t usually create any acute discomfort and there’s absolutely not any loss of cells or bones that support the teeth. When left untreated, gingivitis may give way to periodontitis, which is inflammation around the tooth.

Final note

In this condition, the teeth go away from the teeth forming distances called pockets, which get infected. The bacteria in the plaque spread and grow below the gum line and creates toxins, which irritate the gums. The immune system of the body fights these toxins and the joint action of both causes the bone and connective tissues that support the teeth to get ruined. Eventually, the teeth may become loose and result in removal. Many forms of the disease are similar to aggressive periodontitis, chronic periodontitis, necrotizing periodontal disease, and periodontitis that happens as symptom of other systemic diseases.