If you have been
experiencing bleeding gums after you brush or floss, you need to schedule an
appointment with your dentist who can determine if you are suffering from
gingivitis, or the more serious, periodontal disease.
Colgate explains that
gingivitis usually precedes periodontal disease; however, it is imperative to understand
that not all cases of gingivitis will progress to periodontal disease,
especially if you see your dentist and improve your oral health habits.
In the earliest
stages of gingivitis, plaque, caused by bacteria, will begin to build up
leaving your gums inflamed. It is during this stage that you may notice
bleeding while you brush and floss, and although your gums are irritated, your
teeth are still firmly planted in the sockets. At this point, no irreversible
tissue or bone damage as begun. This is the most important time to see your
dentist as if gingivitis is left untreated it can quickly advance to
periodontal disease.
If you have
periodontal disease, the inner layer of your gums and bone will start to pull
away from your teeth forming pockets. The small spaces that lie in between your
gums and your teeth will start to collect debris, bacteria, plaque and tartar,
which can become infected. Your immune system will do its best to fight the
bacteria, which will cause the plaque to spread below your gum line.
Poisons and toxins,
which are produced by the bacteria in the plaque along with your good bacterial
enzymes that help fight off infections will begin to break down the connective
tissue and the bone that holds your teeth in place. Once the periodontal
disease begins to progress those pockets will get deeper destroying more bone
and gum tissue. When this progression begins, your teeth will no longer be
anchored and become loose. It is during this time that tooth loss will occur.
According to your dentist, gum disease is the number one reason adults lose
their teeth.
Although plaque is
the number one cause of gingivitis and periodontal disease there are some other
factors that can contribute. These include,
Hormonal changes that
occur during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. Certain illnesses
such as diabetes, cancer, and HIV may also cause gum disease as they interfere
with your immune system. Certain medications can also cause gum disease as can
smoking or chewing tobacco.
Of course, poor oral
hygiene is one of the biggest causes of gum disease and can easily be fixed if
you schedule and appointment with your dentist who can show you how to brush
and floss properly.
