Gum disease also known as gingivitis is one of the most prevalent infections affecting the society today. This disease is silently affecting 50 million Americans (www.orapharma.com). It is also known as periodontal disease, an infection of the connective tissue and bone surrounding the teeth, if left untreated the disease may lead to tooth loss. It is a disease of neglect.

The main cause of gum disease is plaque, a soft, sticky colorless film of bacteria above the gum line. When the gums become red, swollen and start bleeding, it is vital that the patient seeks professional help before the disease progress to a non reversible stage. Regular dental prophylaxis and proper home care is essential for a healthy gum and smile.

If the plaque is not dislodged from between the teeth and the gum, the body’s immune system will fight the disease; therefore cure the symptom of gum disease discussed above. The patient in turn will assume that the problem has been resolved when in fact the disease is progressing slowly to periodontitis, a more serious damaging stage of gingivitis.

Another important factor that is very important for everyone to be aware of is that periodontal disease is hereditary. There is an increasing evidence that the disease is contagious, the causative bacteria can be passed from parent to child or from lover to lover simply by kissing (www.afdd.com). It is possible to have periodontal disease and have no warning signs; that’s why it is important to get regular dental check ups and periodontal examination. Good oral hygiene at home is essential to help keep the disease from becoming more serious or recurring after treatment. There are a lot more causes associated with gum disease: stress, certain medications, diabetes, poor dental restorations, dry mouth and so on. Fortunately, each of us is different, some people are more susceptible than others, we do not have to lose our teeth to gum disease, with today’s state of the art technology, most teeth can be saved, and therefore good periodontal health depends on you.

Bernadette M Charles, RDH