Healthy gums are pink and hold your
teeth solidly in place. They should not bleed then touched or brushed. One of
the most common causes of bleeding gums is gum
disease, but gums may also bleed as a result
of hormonal changes, chemotherapy and the use of tobacco products.
Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum
disease which, in turn, can lead to bleeding gums. But inadequate oral care is
just one cause. Holistic
dentists approach gum disease from a broader
perspective to explore other possible causes of the condition, such as
genetics, stress, and diet.
Gum
Disease Is More Common Than You Might Think
Approximately 75 percent of Americans
suffer from gum disease, which can range from mild cases to severe periodontitis.
Incredibly, only about 3 percent of gum disease sufferers actually seek
out treatment.
Why
People Ignore Gum Disease
People often ignore bleeding gums
because they do not view gum disease as a serious problem. Unfortunately, gum
disease that is left untreated can develop into periodontitis, and the tissues
that support the tooth can become infected. The gums abscess and teeth become
loose, making it difficult to eat and talk. Gum disease can contribute to the
development of other serious health issues too, such as heart disease and
diabetes.
The
Stages of Gum Disease
There are three different stages to gum
disease. During the first stage, plaque begins to build up along the gum line. If
the plaque is not removed by brushing
and flossing, it produces toxins which cause an inflammation
called gingivitis. Your gums may start to bleed when you brush your teeth. It
is best to talk with your dentist during this early stage because gingivitis is
completely reversible.
The second stage of gum disease is
periodontitis. The supporting bone and fiber that hold your teeth in place are
irreversibly affected, but further damage can be prevented. The final stage is
advanced periodontitis, when the bone and fibers are destroyed. If gum disease
advances to this stage, the affected teeth may have to be removed.
How
Holistic Dentists Approach Gum Disease
A holistic dentist will ensure that the
gum disease is promptly treated. Surgery and antibiotics are avoided unless
deemed necessary. Instead, holistic
treatment involves deep cleaning and herbal
remedies.
Holistic dentistry looks beyond
treating the symptoms of gum disease and aims to address the causes as well. Your
holistic dentist may recommend the use of natural supplements to reduce or prevent
the damage caused by gum disease.
Don't ignore bleeding gums. If they are
caused by gum disease, you will want treatment to begin as soon as possible. A D.C. holistic dentist
can offer you a comprehensive approach to restoring your oral health.
Terry Victor, DDS – Washington DC
Dentist
509 11th St SE Washington, DC 20003
(202) 544-3626
http://www.thedcdentist.com/
https://plus.google.com/116338970420867784677/
509 11th St SE Washington, DC 20003
(202) 544-3626
http://www.thedcdentist.com/
https://plus.google.com/116338970420867784677/
