If you go to any Nassau County Dentists, gum disease is a major problem that their patients complain about.  But what causes gum disease? Many Nassau County Dentists are asked “Is there a way that gum diseases can be prevented?” These are just a couple of of the numerous questions that patients need to recognize. Gum disease is merely one of the numerous cases of tooth loss in grownups. Gum disease A.K.A. “Periodontal diseaseâ€� is the inflammation of the gums and is frequently unnoticed by persons who have them for many years.

Gum disease or periodontal disease has two main stages. These are: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gingiva or gums without the loss of the bones while periodontitis is the inflammation of the gums that will result to the bones around the teeth. The loss of the bones around the teeth is the factor that differentiates these two stages of gum disease.

So what causes gum disease? Gum diseases are caused by the increase of the bacteria on teeth and gums.   Bacteria ise present in plaques which are clear and sticky substances that your mouth constantly produces.  If plaque is not eliminated immediately, it will accumulate on the teeth and this is what the leading cause for gum disease. The bacteria that are found in plaque feed on sugars of the food and drinks that you intake and will produce toxins and other chemicals. These toxins will irritate the gums causing them to easily swell or bleed when brushed. Plaque can also harden into whats better known as as tartar. Tartar is a mineral build up that will further irritate the gums and can also cause the loss of the teeth.

If you have swollen or red inflamed  gums, mouth sores, gums that bleed quickly (w/ gentle brushing of the teeth), gum itching, bright red or purple gums or receding gum line, you may already have gum disease. Nassau County Dentists are just  a phone call away and if those symptoms show you should seek one immediately for a consultation.

There are also dozens of factors that cause gum disease apart of bacteria. Bad oral hygiene is one of several causes of gum disease. Smoking cigarettes or the use of chewing tobacco is also one of the main causes of gum disease. The hormonal changes of females (e.g. puberty, menopause, pregnancy) are also another reason of gum disease. Certain medications like birth control pills, antidepressants, or heart medications can also lead to gum disease. Crooked teeth may also lead to gum disease (because of the formation of plaque on some hard to clean area in between the teeth).  Accumulation of tartar, misaligned teeth, defective or rough edges of fillings and dentures, crowns or bridges that do not fit properly are the main causes gum disease.

Take care of your teeth..brush two times a day and floss!