| GINGIVITIS is the inflammation of the gums around the teeth due to improper cleaning of the teeth. Although systemic factors and general health can modify the tissue reactions to local irritants, gingivitis at all ages is caused primarily by local irritants. Gingivitis is nearly always reversible. The usual signs of gingivitis are gums which are swollen and bleed during brushing. Failure to rinse the mouth after meals and brush the teeth results in a thin layer of food and bacteria covering the tooth surface. This bacterium is the chief culprit behind the inflammation known as gingivitis. The gums during this stage of infection become soft, spongy and swollen. Bleeding gums is a serious problem. It is either indicating the beginning of the destructive process involving the supporting tissue around the tooth or some serious underlying systemic problems. Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. These bacteria create toxins that damage the gums. Gingivitis is one of the most common forms of gum (periodontal) disease. Gingivitis affects the tissues that surround and support your teeth. The bacteria which causes gingivitis, can turn into tartar buildup, irritate your gums and lead to bleeding. Left unchecked, gingivitis can lead to a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis. This long-term infection can eventually cause loss of your teeth. Gum disease - not decay - is the #1 cause of tooth loss. Gum disease generally doesn’t hurt. You may have it for years before you feel discomfort. When plaque has hardened on your teeth, it will be necessary for a dental hygienist or a dentist to scrape this material off your teeth. Good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent bleeding gums, gingivitis and periodontitis. Daily brushing with a manual toothbrush has been shown to have limited effectiveness in the areas between the teeth. The onset of gum disease often begins in the area between the teeth. So it is importance that these areas be cleansed of plaque on a daily basis. Flossing is designed to effectively clean these areas. Flossing is an essential part of the tooth-cleaning process because it breaks up and removes plaque from between teeth and at the gumline, where periodontal disease often begins. Flossing has many health benefits.
Harvard Medical School researchers studied longevity and found one of the most important contributing factors was daily flossing. Because it removes bacteria from the teeth and gums, flossing helps to prevent periodontal disease and gingivitis. Another study found that men with periodontitis had a whopping 72% greater risk of developing coronary disease.Gingivitis was associated with a 42% increased risk for men.
References: 1. Syrjanen J. et al: Dental infection in association with cerebral infarction in young and middle-aged men.J Intern Med 225:179-184,1989. |
