Gum Disease: Recognize, Remedy, Reverse It
Because gum disease is usually painless, you may not know you have it. Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Also referred to as periodontal disease, gum disease is caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that is constantly forming on our teeth. Here are some warning signs that can signal a problem: gums that bleed easily red, swollen, tender gums gums that have pulled away from the teeth persistent bad breath or bad taste permanent teeth that are loose or separating any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite any change in the fit of partial dentures Some factors which can increase the risk of developing gum disease are: poor oral hygiene smoking or chewing tobacco genetics crooked teeth that are hard to keep clean pregnancy diabetes medications, including steroids, certain types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium