Teeth Whitening

Many dental complications can be prevented by daily oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing your teeth removes plaque buildup and lessens the possibility of developing dental complications such as gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Approximately 75% of the US population suffers from some form of gum disease, and most of those people dont even realize it. Gum disease causes complications in the present, but also has an effect on a persons overall health in the future.

Plaque is the sticky, white substance that forms on teeth and gums, and is easily removed by brushing and flossing. If the buildup is not removed it hardens and becomes known as tartar. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing and leads to further plaque buildup and infections. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and is reversible but often goes unnoticed. If untreated, gingivitis may lead to periodontitis, the second stage of gum disease. Periodontitis has several levels and is not reversible.

Commonly caused by bad oral hygiene, tobacco use, bad nutrition, birth control pills, arthritis and high blood pressure medications, and hormonal changes, the earliest signs of gum disease may be bad breath and red, swollen, and/or bleeding gums. Progression of the disease causes symptoms to worsen and new symptoms to appear. The new symptoms may include color change in gums, loosening teeth, abscessed teeth, receding gum line, and tooth loss due to bum and bone tissue loss.

The risk of heart disease and stroke, kidney disease, and preterm birth are all increased by developing gum disease. Pregnancy hormonal changes in the first trimester raise possibility of gum disease development, and may cause premature birth and low birth weight if they are allowed to progress into periodontitis. Diabetes patients suffering with slow blood circulation, lack of resistance to infections, and frequent changes in blood sugar levels are in constant danger of gum disease development and experience severe cases of gingivitis and periodontitis.

Daily brushing, flossing, the use of mouth wash, and regular visits to your dental hygienist are the best form preventing gum disease and other dental complications. The early stages of gum disease are reversible with a visit to the dentists office, scaling is performed by the dentist or hygienist to remove plaque and tartar buildup. A prescription mouth wash, such as chlorhexidine gluconate, and several cleanings will be used as treatment for mid-level stages. For advanced stages of gum disease, surgery is performed to stop or minimize the progression of the disease and replace lost bone tissues.

Like many health complications, gum disease is very easily prevented and can be reversed if found early enough. The importance of oral hygiene cannot be stressed enough because many people know the dangers but still do not perform daily oral hygiene. People with diabetes, and pregnant women should be especially careful to prevent further complications with their own health and the health of their offspring. The menial task of brushing and flossing your teeth is a routine that takes a few minutes, two to three times a day, and should never be neglected.