Gum Disease-What Happens

Gum Disease - What Happens

Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis ) starts when bacteria are left on teeth and gums and plaque forms. Plaque and the acids it produces irritate the gums, causing them to become red and swollen.

Plaque can harden into tartar (or calculus), a mineral buildup that also irritates gums and must be removed by a dental professional.
Untreated gingivitis can progress to advanced gum disease (periodontitis ), causing gums to pull away from the teeth or recede down the root. This creates deep pockets. Plaque can grow in the pockets, further damaging the gums and breaking down bones that support the teeth.
Bone damage can loosen teeth, causing them to fall out or have to be removed.

If a woman has gum disease during pregnancy, she may be at greater risk of having a premature, low-birth-weight baby.¹

Studies have found a direct link between heart disease and the bacteria that cause gum disease.² So taking good care of your teeth and gums may have benefits beyond keeping your mouth healthy.

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Only 18.5% of Americans never floss. You are missing out on a simple way to make a big difference in the health of your mouth. Regardless of how well you brush, plaque still forms between your teeth and along your gums. Floss removes food trapped between the teeth and removes the film of bacteria that forms there before it turns to plaque, which can cause inflamed gums (gingivitis), cavities, and tooth loss. Try flossing just one tooth to get started.

You are one of 31% of Americans who don't floss daily. You are missing out on a simple way to make a big difference in the health of your mouth. Regardless of how well you brush, plaque still forms between your teeth and along your gums. Toothbrush bristles alone cannot clean effectively between these tight spaces. Flossing removes up to 80% of the film that hardens to plaque, which can cause inflamed gums (gingivitis), cavities, and tooth loss. Aim for 3 more days!

You are one of 31% of Americans who don't floss daily, but you're well on your way to making a positive impact on your teeth and gums. Regardless of how well you brush, plaque still forms between your teeth and along your gums. Toothbrush bristles alone cannot clean effectively between these tight spaces. Flossing removes up to 80% of the film that hardens to plaque, which can cause inflamed gums (gingivitis), cavities, and tooth loss. Aim for all 7 days!

Only 50.5% of Americans floss daily, and good for you that you are one of them! Regardless of how well you brush, plaque still forms between your teeth and along your gums. Toothbrush bristles alone cannot clean effectively between these tight spaces. Flossing removes up to 80% of the film that hardens to plaque, which can cause inflamed gums (gingivitis), cavities, and tooth loss. Congratulations on your good oral health habit!

SOURCES:

American Dental Association, Healthy People 2010

Today in Oral Health