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| Periodontics |
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Periodontics deals with the diagnosis, prevention and control of periodontal
diseases or gum diseases. Our periodontics services include
- Supervised oral
hygiene methods;
- Non surgical and surgical scaling;
- Root planing to achieve
a healthy oral environment conducive for the retention of teeth, implants and
dental prosthesis such as dentures, crowns and bridges.
GUM INFECTION |
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"These photos showing gum infection or diseases are provided by Dr Yap Kin Wai, a dental surgeon of Q & M Dental Group."
Gum infection, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections
that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
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Gum infection. also known as periodontal infection, is a chronic bacterial
infection that affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth.
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Gum infection can affect one tooth or many teeth. It begins when the bacteria
and the products produced in plaque, which is the sticky, colorless film that
constantly forms on the teeth, cause the gums to become irritated and inflamed.
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While the main cause of gum infection is bacterial plaque, other factors can
also affect the health of your gums. Tobacco use may be one of the most
significant risk factors in the development and progression of gum infection.
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Recent studies indicate that lifestyle factors like smoking, lack of sleep and
psychological factors such as stress, distress, anxiety, depression are
significant risk factors in the development and progression of gum infections.
In addition, stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off the
infections
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Other risk factors such as genetics, poor nutrition, clenching or grinding of
teeth, pregnant status, systemic illness with an increased inflammatory
component (e.g. cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, diabetes, auto-immune
disorders), may contribute to aggravation of gum infection.
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In the earliest form of gum infection, known as gingivitis, the gums redden,
swell and bleed easily on brushing .Usually there is little or no discomfort
and it often goes unnoticed until the dentist highlights it to the patient.
This stage of gum infection is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene and is
easily reversed with professional treatment and guided oral home care.
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Untreated gum infection can advance to periodontitis which involves the
destruction of the connective tissue, ligaments and bone surrounding the teeth.
This results in the creation of more gaps between the teeth and consequent
complaints of food trapping after eating, increased mobility of the teeth,
recurrent gum boils and pain as the gum tissues and bone are destroyed.
Eventually, teeth can fall off on their own!
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It is wise not to ignore any signs and symptoms the gums have been giving you
all along. Schedule a visit to the dentist to assess the status of the
supporting tissues of your teeth to ensure you continue to have your own teeth
to serve you.
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