Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is a serious infection of the gums that damages the soft tissue around the teeth. If left untreated, it can destroy the bone that supports the teeth. This can cause teeth to become loose or fall out.
Plaque and tartar build up on the teeth. Inflammation results from this buildup and causes a normal “sulcus” to deepen and become a “pocket” or abnormal space between the gums and teeth below the gum line. This pocket collects more plaque and turns into a hard material called tartar. The bacteria in the plaque and tartar become trapped in these pockets and receive less oxygen.
The more bone loss, the more the tooth loosens and shifts position, and chewing becomes painful. Often, the anterior teeth project outward. Periodontitis usually does not cause pain unless a collection of pus (abscess) forms in a pocket due to infection, the teeth become loose enough to move when chewing.
Some people have a genetic predisposition to suffer from the disease. In addition, the presence of other diseases of systemic origin, such as diabetes or cardiovascular pathologies, can collaborate in the development of periodontitis.
On the other hand, external agents, such as stress or smoking, aggravate the disease, as they act as accelerators of the infectious process.
For example, periodontitis is related to respiratory diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, coronary artery disease, premature birth and low birth weight, and blood glucose control problems in diabetes.
Prevention:
Brush your teeth for at least two minutes and twice a day, in the morning and before bedtime, and floss at least once a day. Flossing before brushing allows you to remove loose food particles and bacteria.
Avoid certain foods…
Foods high in sugar, including carbonated soft drinks, do not help oral health. Bacteria in the mouth transform sugars into acids, which in turn attack tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay and other oral diseases.
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