Tooth socket diseases, in dentistry jargon called PERIODONTAL DISEASES, can be prevented!

Many people suffer from tooth socket disease (periodontitis). Among people over 40, peridontitis causes more tooth losses than caries. In most cases, it all begins without any significant symptoms or pain. In the first phase, only the gingival edges are inflamed. During the second phase, bacteria penetrate the space between the teeth and the gingival edge which causes the tissue to swell and redden. Gum bleeding can indicate the presence of periodontitis as well. It is usually triggered by negligent dental care, malnutrition, an aggressive bacterial flora, overstrained teeth, dental or jaw malpositions, disorders of the immune system, or a genetic disposition.   

The lack of general knowledge on periodontitis is alarming. In spring 2007, the Institute of German Dentists conducted a survey on peridontitis ("The knowledge of the German population on periodontal disease"). It revealed the following:

* Approx. 70 % of respondents did not consider oral hygiene a risk factor

* Approx. 60 % believed that cleaning their chewing surfaces meant sufficient dental protection

* Approx. 60 % thought that dental calculus cannot be prevented

* Approx. 60 % were not able to name any subsequent risk of periodontitis

This outcome once again goes to show that a visit to the dentist is indispensable when it comes to efficient prophylaxis. Only your dentist can offer you profound advice on how to keep your teeth healthy!

* Source: www.idz-koeln.de

Updated 14 May 2009 by KU64, Dentist in Berlin for Gum diseases/Parodontology