| Periodontal diseases are classified according to
their severity and there are two major stages; gingivitis and periodontitis.
The early stage of gum disease is called “gingivitis”,
the first warning signs, which you should look
out for, are:
reddish-blue patches
at the gum margins |
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unpleasant tastes and odours in the mouth |
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| sensitivity
of some of the teeth to cold and hot |
Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease
and occurs when plaque destroys the soft tissue
and bone that support the teeth. When the gum tissue
and bone are destroyed the tooth loses its support
and becomes loose in its socket. At this stage
teeth may fall out or need to be removed.
It is possible to have gum disease without
showing any symptoms, which is why, it is important
to visit your dentist regularly for check ups.
Whilst some people are just prone to gum disease
(it can even be hereditary) other common causes
of gum disease include; poor brushing technique,
neglecting to floss or forgetting to change your
toothbrush regularly. All lead to the build up
of plaque on our teeth and over time, plaque that
is not removed will harden and form tartar, which
brushing cannot remove. The longer that plaque
and tartar are left on the teeth, the more destructive
the bacteria becomes. |
