The Importance of Dealing with Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Disease

Also referred to as gum disease, periodontal disease describes infections that affect structures around the teeth. If your dentist has diagnosed you with gum disease in Issaquah , there are several important reasons why you shouldn’t ignore this problem. The Model of Periodontal Disease in teeth

Risks of Periodontal Disease

When the structures that help hold your teeth in place are affected by gum disease, this can lead to several issues for your teeth. As the gum and bone tissues are damaged by bacteria, your teeth can loosen, become more prone to decay, and they can even fall out. For these reasons, periodontal disease is a problem that can snowball into bigger oral health issues. In addition to this, research has found possible links between gum disease and several health conditions, including diabetes, stroke, premature birth, heart disease, and respiratory problems.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

Gum disease starts with plaque, which is a film of bacteria that naturally develops on your teeth. When plaque is allowed to accumulate on your teeth and to harden into tartar, it can spread below the gum line and the bacteria that it contains can irritate and infect the gum tissue. The plaque causes the gums to become inflamed and tender, which can then cause them to pull away from the teeth and create pockets. These pockets are a perfect location for bacteria to accumulate, leading to further plaque buildup.

Prevention of Periodontal Disease

Gum disease can be incredibly damaging to your teeth and your overall health but, luckily, it is easy to prevent. Twice daily teeth brushing and once daily flossing is often sufficient for preventing the plaque buildup that leads to periodontal disease. In addition to practicing good oral hygiene, regular visits to your dentist for cleanings and checkups can help keep plaque from accumulating and forming tartar. If your gums bleed easily or appear red and inflamed, then speak with your dentist about what you can do to restore the health of your gums.