By the time people reach adulthood, their teeth and gum have had quite
a workout. Many adults develop some type of periodontal or gum disease.
some researchers suggest that there may be a link between gum disease
and other health concerns such as cardiovascular problems, stroke,
bacterial pneumonia and increase risk during pregnancy.
Gum disease is usually caused by plaque. If plaque is not removed with
daily brushing properly, gums become irritated and inflamed. The irritating
gum tissue can separate from the teeth and form spaces call pockets.
Left untreated, the process can continue until the gum and supporting bone
are destroyed.
Even if you brush and floss regularly, you may not remove all the plaque,
especially around the gum line. Plaque can be harden deposit called
calculus. Once hardened, it can be removed only in the dental office
during your regular cleaning.
To prevent the gum disease, regular checkups and cleaning every
6 months is important.