Periodontitis

Periodontitis

If you leave gingivitis untreated, it may spread to the ligaments and bones below the gums, becoming periodontitis. The bacterial inflammation causes teeth to lose support. Eventually the teeth will become loose and fall out. Sometimes the infection becomes so severe that it can cause a tooth abscess. This can be quite painful. Antibiotics can help, and treatment for the general condition includes cleaning and improved oral hygiene.
Recently Answered
Q How does brushing too hard actually lead to gum recession?
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Even when you use a soft-bristle brush, you can wear away the root dentine by scrubbing too hard. This vigorous brushing over time can  expose the inner nerve part of the tooth. Full Answer
Q What is the proper way to brush to prevent gum recession?
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Brushing your teeth is an important part of your oral hygiene routine. The proper brushing technique is to: Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums.  Move the brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes. ... Full Answer
Q How can braces help prevent gum recession?
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Braces correct protruding and misaligned teeth and bad bites, all of which contribute to gum recession. In addition, braces can improve oral health by making it easier for you to reach and clean all of your teeth. Full Answer
Q Can my body weight contribute to gum recession?
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Maintaining a good weight and staying physically fit lowers your risk of periodontitis, a cause of gum recession. In a study published in the Journal of Periodontology, researchers found that people with the low body mass and high levels of fitness had... Full Answer
Q Can stress contribute to gum recession?
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Studies have shown that people under stress are more prone to neglecting good oral hygiene and may miss routine dental visits. The neglect, combined with the stress hormone cortisol, increases the likelihood of periodontal disease and gum recession. Full Answer
Q Does taking vitamin C help prevent gum recession?
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Research indicates that a lack of vitamin C contributes to periodontal disease. Vitamin C helps your body repair and maintain connective tissue, so eating fruits rich in vitamin C can help people with periodontitis and can help others prevent it. Full Answer
Q Can gums recede in a healthy mouth?
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Even if you have a healthy mouth and practice good oral hygiene, you can still develop gum recession. Factors other than poor oral hygiene can cause your gums to pull away from your teeth. Some of these factors include trauma or brushing too hard. Full Answer
Q Why does gum recession cause teeth to feel so sensitive?
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As the gum pulls away from a tooth, the roots of the tooth become exposed. As a result thousands of channels to the tooth's nerve center are exposed, so your response to hot and cold is heightened. Full Answer
Q What can I do if my gums have receded and my teeth are sensitive?
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In addition to brushing gently with a soft-bristle brush, you should consider a low-abrasion toothpaste that helps your teeth become less sensitive to brushing. Your dentist may also recommend a fluoride rinse or gel to help your teeth become less... Full Answer
Q Can my gum recession spread to other areas of my mouth?
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If you are experiencing gum recession, you should not delay care because the recession can progress from the gum tissue around your tooth to the tissue covering the muscles of your jaws. This may require more advanced and expensive treatment. Full Answer