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What is the main cause of periodontal disease?
Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It’s typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden.
Can drinking alcohol give you gum disease?
The excessive drinking of alcohol and oral health do not mix well. In fact, studies link gum disease with drinking alcohol. Researchers have recently discovered that the more alcohol you drink, the more at risk your gums are. And if you already have gum disease, alcohol can accelerate the stages of the condition.
What is the primary risk factor for periodontal disease?
Diabetes and smoking are the biggest risk factors for periodontal disease, increasing the occurrence, severity, and speed of onset and progression. The No. 1 systemic condition that increases susceptibility to periodontal disease is diabetes.
Can periodontitis be stopped?
Periodontitis can only be treated but cannot be cured. Gingivitis, on the other hand, can be prevented by maintaining proper oral hygiene practices and visiting the dentist for checkups and exams.
What are the 4 stages of periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is broken up into four separate stages: gingivitis, slight periodontal disease, moderate periodontal disease, and advanced periodontal disease.
Can a dentist tell if you drink alcohol?
How they can tell: Alcohol has a distinct smell, Adibi says, and what’s more, people who drink heavily tend to have very dry mouths. Says Adibi, “Alcohol interferes with the salivary glands and reduces saliva production.”
Why do alcoholics have bad teeth?
Beer, liquor and mixed drinks have high sugar content and high acidity, breaking down the enamel that protects your teeth. This can lead to cavities, long term tooth decay and increase the risk of periodontal disease. People that suffer from alcohol abuse may also forget to brush their teeth.
What are the risks of periodontal disease?
Certain factors increase the risk for periodontal disease:
- Smoking.
- Diabetes.
- Poor oral hygiene.
- Stress.
- Heredity.
- Crooked teeth.
- Underlying immuno-deficiencies—e.g., AIDS.
- Fillings that have become defective.
Is race a risk factor for periodontal disease?
Non-Hispanic Blacks, Hispanics, and American Indians/Alaska Natives generally have the poorest oral health of any of the racial and ethnic groups in the United States. African American adults are more likely than other racial or ethnic minorities to have periodontal disease.
Is periodontitis reversible?
Periodontitis can’t be reversed, only slowed down, while gingivitis can be reversed. This is why it’s important to catch it in its early stages and prevent it from moving on to periodontitis.