Our mouth is where we take in food and is considered the first entry points for nutrients to enter our body. Our teeth help us in grinding the food we take in so that it can be easily absorbed by our body. Without teeth, we are not able to chew on food thus we cannot take in solid food as well.
This introduction is just to stress the importance of our mouth and teeth to the functions performed by our body. Therefore, there is a need to take good care of it like we do with other body organs. Since there are hundreds of bacteria that develop in our mouth due to the different foods we eat, there is a need to constantly keep our mouth clean. This is to avoid mouth infections like gum disease, tooth decay and mouth sores. Brushing, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash are just some habits we can regularly do at home to avoid these mouth ailments.
Gum disease is also known as periodontal disease in medical terms. This is characterized by the infection of gum tissues around the teeth and the bones that support the teeth. There many causes that lead to this mouth ailment however, it will all result to just one thing that is bacterial growth. Bacteria are present in plaque, or the food particles or debris that is left behind after you eat, smoke or drink. Plaque is the sticky layer of germs that builds up around the teeth and gum line. The plaque contains bacteria and when it comes in contact with the gums, they irritate it and cause damage.
Gingivitis is one of the precedents of gum disease. If you notice that your gums bleed when brushing your teeth or it is somewhat swollen, then you may be having a case of gingivitis. Gum inflammation, as gingivitis is sometimes called, is characterized by red and swollen gums, and with severe cases, receding gum lines. The early phase of gingivitis is induced by plaque build-up on the gum line that surrounds the teeth. The plaque carries bacteria therefore the gums around the teeth become irritated causing the swelling.
This is why proper oral hygiene is a must to prevent these mouth infections. Regularly performing excellent oral hygiene will not only save you from gum infections but also save you from the hassle and pain of experiencing one. In addition, keeping your mouth clean will save your teeth from becoming decayed and falling out.