Plaque is one of the reasons why oral hygiene is essential for people of all ages. Although you may not always see plaque, this sticky film that is rich in germs is constantly forming and coating your teeth. If you are not diligent with your oral hygiene practices, you will start developing various oral diseases that would require dental treatment. Here are some of the gum diseases that stem from excessive accumulation of plaque on your teeth.

Gingivitis 

One of the more common conditions people suffer from due to plaque accumulation is gingivitis. As the plaque is left undeterred, it begins to harden forming a layer known as tartar. In the beginning, tartar will cause bad breath. Over time, you start developing an oral infection referred to as gingivitis. This is because the tartar has made its way to your gum line exposing your gums to the germs and bacteria contained in this substance.

Some of the symptoms associated with the onset of gingivitis include red gums that will eventually begin to swell. The good news is that during this early stage gingivitis will not have made its way to your jawbone, thus it can be arrested and remedied by seeing a dentist. The dentist will perform thorough tooth cleaning and also advise you on ways to enhance your oral hygiene regimen so as to prevent the reoccurrence of gingivitis.

Periodontitis

As gingivitis progresses without treatment, it transforms into a more serious gum disease known as periodontitis. With this oral infection, the germs and bacteria in the plaque make their way to the bottom of your teeth and into the gum line. Over time, the bacteria starts breeding within the pockets that surround the roots of your teeth and this compromises the structural integrity of your teeth. The first signs to look out for that would indicate periodontitis include inflammation in your gums. Some patients may even experience bleeding gums.

If left unchecked, the periodontitis will progress and this puts you at risk of losing the affected teeth as their structural integrity has been compromised from the root. If you are afflicted with periodontitis, the first course of action your dentist will take is teeth cleaning. This will be followed by other procedures such as root planning or scaling of your teeth depending on how extensive the infection is. For patients who have lost their teeth, tooth replacement treatments such as bridges or dental implants may be essential in restoring your smile. 

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