Gingivitis – The Ignored Disease

Gingivitis – The Ignored Disease

Nowadays, gingivitis is one of the most common dental health problems. The health of the gums is closely related to proper oral hygiene, or the lack thereof. Due to the lack of acute pain, the disease might be left untreated for long periods of time (especially in those individuals who do not make regular dental checkups).

This, in turn, can lead to a more severe form of the disease called periodontitis – where the connective surrounding(periodontal) tissue and bone are destroyed, leading to eventual massive teeth loss.

Signs and Symptoms of gingivitis

The disease manifests itself with reddened or swollen gums, which bleed easily during brushing or flossing. As the dental plaque builds up and the infection attacks the connective tissue, the gum begins to recede, giving the teeth an elongated look and feeling of looseness. Plaque buildup can cause periodontal pockets and detach the tissues from the tooth.

In its final stages, the periodontal tissue is unable to sustain the teeth, requiring an extensive reconstructive treatment to prevent tooth loss.

Periodontal Treatments Abroad

Even though periodontal treatments are usually non-invasive, they can be rather costly. This in turn, makes a lot of people from the UK and EU, to consider getting a periodontal treatment abroad, combined with a pleasant vacation arrangement, at far more affordable prices.

The treatment itself involves a thorough cleaning of the built-up dental plaque (a dental curettage), allowing the gums to naturally reattach to the tooth (or teeth). In the most severe cases, a small reconstructive surgery of the gums might be required to prevent the loss of teeth.

Adequate Dental Hygiene

Even though there’s no official cure for periodontitis, keeping an adequate dental hygiene routine is paramount for long-term health benefits. Keeping a clean, healthy mouth involves the following:

•        Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, covering all areas of your teeth and gums with upright movements,
•        Using an electric toothbrush to achieve the best brushing results
•        Using a good mouthwash after brushing,
•        Daily flossing to remove plaque and tartar between your teeth
•        Tongue scraping in order to remove any food debris or residue
•        Regular preventative dental checkups, to diagnose any possible dental health problems as early as possible.

This routine is recommended not only to help reverse some of the damage gingivitis has done – but also preventing any future dental health problems.

Avoid Tobacco and Adjust Your Diet

Even though poor oral hygiene is the main culprit for gingivitis, tobacco smoking wreaks havoc upon the gums. On top of its cancer-inducing properties, tobacco smoke dries up the mouth and creates a perfect environment for the bacteria in the plaque to freely reproduce and attack the gums and teeth.

Smoking can accelerate the progression of gingivitis into periodontitis. Additionally, a balanced diet which isn’t too high in sugar content complements the adequate dental hygiene to protect your gums and teeth.

Smile with Confidence

With a complete, professional and careful periodontal treatment, performed by a highly qualified periodontist, alongside proper dental hygiene – you can return the beauty and luster to your smile.

Finally, there’s nothing as good as satisfying than showing the world your healthy, pearly smile, while visiting new and exciting places, and meeting new people. Cherish your smile, for it is the most important thing you wear!