BEVERLY WILSHIRE DENTAL GROUP 
                          310-246-9321
(310) 246-9321
300 S Beverly Dr Ste 411
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Beverly Hills Cosmetic Dentist

Periodontics:


Gingivitis:


Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, usually caused by a bacterial infection. If left untreated, it can become a more serious infection known as periodontitis. Gingivitis and periodontitis are major causes of tooth loss in adults, according to the American Dental Association. Dental infections can add up, with both your health and your wallet at stake. 

Causes:Your gums actually attach to the teeth at a lower point than the gum edges that we see. This forms a small space called a sulcus. Food can get trapped in this space and cause a gum infection or gingivitis. Plaque is a thin film of bacteria. It constantly forms on the surface of your teeth. As plaque advances, it hardens and becomes tartar. You can develop an infection when plaque extends below the gum line.

Left unchecked, gingivitis can cause the gums to separate from the teeth. This can cause injury to the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth. The tooth may become loose and unstable. If infection progresses, you may ultimately lose your tooth or need a dentist to remove it.

Risk Factors:

smoking or chewing tobacco

diabetes

consuming certain medications (oral contraceptives, steroids,  anticonvulsants, calcium         channel blockers, and chemotherapy)

  crooked teeth

  • dental appliances that fit poorly

broken fillings

pregnancy

genetic factors

compromised immunity (such as HIV/AIDS patients) 

Periodontitis (Gum Disease)


If you have a family history of gum disease, then you are more likely to have problems with your gums. According to the American Dental Association, genetics is a risk factor for developing gum disease. This disease usually starts out as gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), which is characterized by swollen, tender gums that may bleed during brushing and/or flossing. If left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis (inflammation of the tissues that surround and support the teeth) and eventually lead to tooth loss. Unlike other controllable risk factors such as smoking or poor oral care, your genetic makeup is out of your control. What can you do for your teeth and gums to help prevent this disease, even if it runs in your family?


Daily Oral Care at Home:

There is a lot that you can do to prevent gum disease. Good oral care habits are key to fighting plaque, the sticky substance that builds up on the surface of teeth and irritates the gums. Brush in the morning and at night to cut down on harmful bacteria and plaque. Spend a full two minutes toothbrushing, focusing on the gum-line, those hard-to-reach back teeth, and your tongue.

Daily flossing is also essential to help remove substances that can get stuck in between teeth. Eat a balanced diet to make sure your teeth and gums are getting the nutrients that they need to thrive.

If you have family history of gum disease, Dr. Ebrahimi recommends deep cleaning treatments in addition to having your teeth professionally cleaned every 3-4 months.

Follow Us on FacebookFollow Us on Google+Follow Us on TwitterFollow Us on YouTube