Embarrassing Illnesses

Gingivitis and periodontitis can be caused by a variety of factors, but the most common factor is a build up of plaque.

What is plaque?

Plaque is a soft, sticky substance which is made when bacteria collects on the surface of your teeth. It can be easily removed by brushing your teeth (twice a day) and flossing (daily).

Sometimes, when plaque is not removed, it can harden and form another substance known as tartar. Tartar sticks much more firmly to teeth than plaque, and can usually only be removed by your dentist, or dental hygienist, using a procedure known as 'scaling', or 'scale and polish'. During a scaling procedure, the tartar will be scraped from your teeth using a special instrument. Your teeth can then be polished (if necessary) to remove any marks, or stains.

When plaque and tartar build up near the gums, the bacteria can cause the gums to become sore and inflamed, which is what causes you to develop gingivitis. If your gingivitis is not treated, and the plaque and tartar build up further, you may go on to develop periodontitis, which can cause your teeth to become loose, and even fall out.

Oral hygiene

Gingivitis and periodontitis are often caused by poor oral hygiene. This is because poor oral hygiene usually leads to a build up of plaque and tartar on your teeth, which in turn causes your gums to become infected and inflamed. To ensure that bacteria does not build up in your mouth, you should brush your teeth twice a day, and floss them regularly. If you fail to keep your teeth and mouth clean, then you put yourself at risk of developing gingivitis and periodontitis.

Risk factors

There are a number of factors which can increase your risk of developing gingivitis and periodontitis. These include:

• smoking,
• diabetes, and
• having a weakened immune system (as a result of AIDS, HIV, chemotherapy treatment, or other conditions which suppress your immune system)

 

Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG)

Risk factors for acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG) include:

• immunocompromise (where your immune system is weakened, leading to an increased risk of infection),
• malnutrition,
• smoking,
• stress, and
• ineffective oral hygiene.

 

ANUG is a rare condition, and it is usually prevented by good oral hygiene and prompt treatment of gingivitis and periodontitis.