Dental Care Tips: Preventive Measures for Periodontitis
This entry was posted on 12/14/2007 10:48 AM and is filed under ARTICLES.
Periodontitis is a serious gum disease that needs to be properly treated, in order to prevent further damage to teeth and gums. If left untreated, periodontitis may worsen resulting in tooth loss. Having healthy gums is extremely important for providing complete support to the teeth.
What causes periodontitis? When there is plaque or tartar buildup, swelling or inflammation in the gums is commonly observed. The bacteria present in plaque attacks the tooth enamel and are deposited along the gum line. Eventually, this attack of harmful toxins will create an irritation of the gums and cause them to pull away from the teeth, creating vacant pockets. This open space now becomes a host for more plaque and tartar, until the infection eventually reaches the root of the tooth....
...
In order to prevent periodontal disease from advancing, a healthy diet rich in nutritional value should be followed. A healthy diet helps the body’s immune system become stronger and helps it to prepare for bacterial attacks or infections. Therefore, even when there is an infection it is less likely to worsen and lead to the common symptoms of periodontitis such as tooth loss or gum inflammation. The damage done by bacterial toxins is preventable. Consuming foods high in Vitamins E and C, which are found in fruits, vegetable oils and broccoli, may also help slow down the damage to teeth and gums.
According to research conducted by the American Academy of Periodontology, nearly 30% of Americans above the age of 30 are more susceptible to periodontitis and periodontal disease. They are, in fact, 6 times more likely to develop the symptoms of periodontitis even after maintaining proper dental hygiene and seeking dental care. Therefore, if there is a history of periodontitis in your family, dentists and periodontists will most likely recommend regular check-ups, dental cleanings and associated treatments.
