To ‘flap one’s gums’ is to talk or ‘gab’ constantly, at times not really saying anything of any significance to those listening. While we may or may not appreciate those with the ‘gift of gab,’ today’s blog post is to speak of the significance in keeping those ‘flapping gums’ as healthy as our good healthy teeth.

Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, relates to Gingivitis and the offshoot of Gingivitis: Gingival Hypertrophy or Gingival Overgrowth. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums and when left untreated can lead to advanced periodontal disease, tooth decay, and eventually to the loss of your teeth.

Causes of Gum Disease

The risk of developing gum disease becomes greater when there is poor oral hygiene and why brushing, flossing, using an alcohol-free oral rinse after brushing, and routine dental exams twice a year is so important.

Other reasons for developing gum disease are the hormonal changes occurring during pregnancy that increase gum sensitivity, diabetes or other systemic diseases of the body, misaligned teeth, rough edges on fillings, ill-fitting or unclean mouth appliances such as dentures, bridges, braces, and crowns, and the use of certain medications such as bismuth, used for treatment of nausea or gastric distress, phenytoin as found in anti-epileptic medications, and birth control medication.

First Stage of Gingivitis

The beginning stage of Gingivitis is that of gums bleeding upon being brushed. Gingivitis then begins to show increased fluid in the cells, edema, or swelling caused by fluids and gum overgrowth. This brings about the perfect breeding ground for bacterial infiltration that can spread quickly within one’s body system. Gingivitis can be reversed if caught in the early stages, so do not ignore the signs. Gingivitis is common to many and starts in early adulthood due to hormonal changes. It may persist or recur with respect to the health of your teeth and gums.

It is imperative to keep a check on those ‘flapping gums’ as they do tell you much. So contact your Dentist in Canton OH for consultation.