Millennium Magazine

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease is an infection of the gums caused by bacteria that results to pain and inflammation, and may likely cause bone loss in the mouth as well as tooth loss over time. Even though poor oral health care is the primary cause of periodontal disease yet evidence shows that 30 percent of Americans are genetically predisposed to developing hereditary gum disease which leads to receding gums. Gum disease symptoms are painless and often unnoticeable until the advanced stages, so regular dental cleanings are essential in preventing gum disease and receding gums. When gum disease is prevented then you can be sure that your gums and teeth will be in good health.

Heredity as one of receding gum causes has caused significant dental problems to 75 percent of Americans. Those people who are genetically predisposed to hereditary periodontal disease are unaware of their increase risk status that have not sought help until mouth ulcers and gum inflammation and dental problems occur caused by gum disease.

One major cause of gum disease is the bacterial formation of plaque on teeth and gums which forms scale or hardens into tartar when not removed. The bacteria causing gum disease releases toxins to the gums making the gums sore, inflamed and infected. When gum disease starts you may notice that your gums appear bright red or swollen and bleeds easily when brushed or flossed. The condition progresses to the advantage stage when left untreated. Then the gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets therefore making teeth become loose and appear elongated and exposing the roots of teeth. This condition is known as receding gums.

Without taking steps to treat the condition, the teeth may begin to fall out as there is a significant bone loss. When teeth and gums are not properly cared for through routine check ups and regular brushing and flossing, the risk of gum disease may increase especially in those people with hereditary periodontal disease.
Gum disease may have no symptoms, the reason why it is called a “silent disease”. Most people with this condition may not experience any pain during the initial stage and may only see the problem during a dental examination or when the symptoms are already present.

Swollen and bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, bad taste in the mouth, receding gums, pus discharge, loose teeth, change in bite and in fitting of partial dentures are caused by periodontal disease.
Receding gum causes bad breath, red and inflamed gums, root of tooth exposed, sensitivity, bone loss and loss of teeth.

The fact that gum disease goes unnoticed makes prevention crucial to protect teeth and gums. Having solid oral hygiene habits, regular dental examination, and routine dental cleanings, proper brushing and flossing along with proper nutrition are the essential in protecting against gum disease.