Oral hygiene doesn’t start and stop with teeth. Yes, if one has perfect sets of sparkling white teeth it is a good thing, but one also needs to think about other parts such as gums and tongue. They are a vital part of oral hygiene. Since gum diseases are usually painless, it is easier to ignore them.

So, keeping that in mind let’s see what exactly is a Gum disease?

Gum disease is caused by bacteria found in our mouth. Due to a lack of proper oral hygiene, bacteria keep building in our mouths. It uses leftover food and saliva to grow and form a sticky film commonly known as plaque. An acid is released as a by-product of the breakdown of the leftover food. This acid starts dissolving the natural enamel in out tooth and a hole commonly known as cavity is formed. In other words, if the plaque is not removed timely, it hardens up to become tartar. The bacteria thriving in the mouth causes inflammation in our gums causing what is commonly known as gingivitis.

Gingivitis is the condition when our gums become tender, swollen and start bleeding easily. People are advised to go to the best dentist in Kolkata at this stage. If not taken care of, it doesn’t stop here. It will lead to periodontitis. Bacterial poisons in the plaque and our own body’s defenses start breaking down the gum attachment to the tooth. This causes the gums to pull away from the teeth and pockets of infected materials are formed. Therefore, this will lead to the loss of bones around the teeth. Without treatment, this condition will only worsen. In addition to that, teeth will become so loose that they will be required to be pulled out.

How to recognize Gum Disease?

  • Long-lasting bad breath
  • Red, swollen, tender gums
  • Receding gum
  • Pain while chewing
  • Loosening of teeth

How to prevent it?

  • Brush your teeth twice a day with a clean toothbrush.
  • Use toothpaste which contains fluoride and a toothbrush with soft bristle.
  • Floss daily to remove food particles stuck in places our toothbrush cannot reach.
  • Rinse your mouth after every food intake.
  • Use a good mouthwash
  • Stop eating too much sticky food and sweets.
  • Stop smoking
  • Visit Best Dental Clinic in Kolkata at the slightest sign of infection.

In conclusion, gums are a vital part of our mouth. They form the holding structure of the teeth and therefore they should never be ignored. In other words, always remember that if not cured in time, gum disease will eventually lead to falling off of your teeth. Trust me, you don’t want that.