Periodontal disease

Periodontal disease is the name for bacterial infections of the gums in the mouth. In most cases this diesase is linked to poor oral hygiene. Some people however can have a genetic pre-disposition to the disease. The disease once initiated can progress more rapidly in people who have diabetes, specially if the diabetese is poorly controlled.

Symptoms

• redness or bleeding of gums while brushing teeth or biting into hard food (e.g. apples)
• halitosis or bad breath
• persistant bad taste in the mouth
• shaky teeth in later stages
• recession of gums resulting in apparent lengthening of teeth

Treatment

• regular brushing and flossing (use of a thin piece of cotton or nylon string to clean between the teeth)
• treatment by a periodontist, which includes professional cleaning and may include drugs, and/or surgery

Prevention

• brushing properly on a regular basis (2-3 times a day)
• flossing daily
• regular dental checkups and professional teeth cleaning as required
• balanced diets with adequate amount of Vitamin C

See also

• Actinomyces naeslundii