Two most common infection affecting the gums are periodontitis and gingivitis. These are capable of triggering red and inflamed gums which can be swollen as well. Also, brushing teeth while suffering from a gum disease is bound to result in bleeding from the gums. The most common cause of this disease is excessive accumulation of plaque on the surface of the gums and teeth. Since plaque is basically nothing more and nothing less than a substance made of bacteria, when left alone, it builds up and leads to an infection causing inflammation and irritation of the gum area.
Conditions behind Chronic Gum Disease
The most severe form of gum disease is periodontitis. This inflammation encompasses the gums as well as the tissue connecting the tooth to the tooth socket and the bone in the jaw which contains these sockets in the first place. Therefore, this condition may result in formation of a gap between the affected teeth and the gum, potentially leading to teeth loss.
Alternatively, the condition behind gum disease may be acute necrotising ulcerative gingivitis or, short, ANUG. This too is quite a serious disease of the gums, being painful and leading to ulcers that are distributed on the surface of the gums and are caused by a bacterial infection.
Frightening Statistics
Most of us have had or will have some form of gum disease or gum inflammation in our lives. In fact, in the UK, up to 90% of the population suffers from a form of this condition. It is estimated that 6 in every 100,000 people in the UK suffer from a severe case of periodontitis. However, this condition mainly affects older individuals and is seen in those younger than 35 in only 2% of cases.
ANUG, being a rare condition, is likely to affect people with weakened immune systems or people who are prone to malnutrition and lack the necessary nutrients. Fortunately, proper hygiene can often deal with this condition. This will require tooth brushing at least two times a day and flossing three times a week. When a gum disease is neglected, it usually evolves into something more serious, leading to gradual, but severe dental and oral deterioration.
Risk Factors Related to Chronic Gum Disease
Smokers and diabetics are more likely to develop gum disease. Also, people with weak immune systems belong to the list of jeopardized individuals. Finally, malnutrition and excessive exposure to mental and physical stress, are both factors which can trigger chronic gum disease.
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