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Pharmacy home >> Dentistry Articles >> Periodontal disease
Periodontal disease
Periodontal disease is the name for bacterial
infections of the gums in the mouth. In most cases this disease
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, especially
if the diabetes is poorly controlled. Smoking is a strong risk
factor for periodontal disease.
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 either flossing
(use of a thin piece of cotton or nylon string to clean
between the teeth) or using the toothpick-like Johnson &
Johnson Stim-U-Dent Plaque Removers
-
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, or using the toothpick-like
Johnson & Johnson Stim-U-Dent Plaque Removers
-
regular dental checkups and professional
teeth cleaning as required
-
balanced diets with adequate amount of
Vitamin C
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