Gum disease/Periodontal disease
Periodontal disease or gum disease is one of the most common conditions which affects mankind. Surveys show that more than 80% of the population across the world suffer from some or the other form of gum disease.
What is gum disease?
The teeth are supported by the jawbones around it and over that there are gums which cover the jawbones. If dental hygiene is not maintained well the bacteria attack the gums and bones and start destroying them. This condition is called gum disease.
What are the symptoms of gum/periodontal disease?
In initial stages of gum disease, the gums would start to bleed while brushing and eating hard food which generally goes unnoticed. There may be a slight pain, but it would be so severe to seek dentist opinion. At later stages, if it gets infected there might be severe pain and pus discharge. There might also be mobile (shaking) tooth and the patient may experience difficulty in eating food. Some people would have the sensitivity of teeth.
why is gum/periodontal disease so neglected?
Gum diseases are often neglected because it does not hurt severely in the initial stages. Only when the disease progresses to severe stages it starts to hurt and if it is still neglected it may lead to loss of the tooth.
Is gum disease related to general health?
Yes. In certain health condition like diabetes and medications due to high blood pressure, the gums can get affected. Similarly, gum diseases can also impact general health.
Whom should I consult for gum disease?
Periodontist is a gum specialist who will be able to identify the severity of gum diseases and will be able to treat those conditions.
What happens if gum diseases are not treated?
Gum/Periodontal diseases if not treated can lead to loss of teeth. Recent studies have shown that it also affects the general health of the individual who is suffering from gum diseases. It can adversely impact diabetes, heart diseases, obesity etc.