IS GUM DISEASE A CONTAGIOUS CONDITION?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease and gingivitis, is a condition that relates to infection and damage of the gums. When you have developed gum disease, you have infected gum tissue that is unable to successfully support the teeth.
This condition can cause a number of different symptoms and oral health problems. Gingivitis is the early stage of the condition and it is typified by red, swollen and painful gums that often bleed after brushing or flossing. It is also common for people with gingivitis to have constant bad breath - even right after having brushed their teeth. Periodontitis leads to receding gums, serious infection of the gums and jawbone that may spread to other parts of the body and even result in tooth loss.
Gum disease is caused when plaque builds up on the teeth and gums. Plaque is the yellow, sticky film that coats on your teeth usually overnight or after eating. It is produced through a chemical reaction between bacteria and saliva.
If you do not remove the plaque daily by brushing and flossing, your gums will become irritated and infected and you will develop gum disease.
Further Factors Influencing Gum Disease
There are a number of additional factors that can influence whether or not you develop gum disease. Your diet is a major influencing factor on your gum health. If you eat a lot of sugary or processed foods, then you are opening the door to bacteria and plaque formation on the gums. Smoking is also a major cause of gum disease since it weakens the gums and also leaches vitamin C from your body so you cannot fight off bacterial infection on the gums easily.
Stress is also a major factor since it lowers your immunity. Women are at greater risk of developing gum disease than men. This is due to hormonal changes and pregnancy making the gum tissue more sensitive. Protect your oral health by visiting your dental expert for checkups throughout the year and remain vigilant for early signs of gum disease including:
- Red gums
- Bleeding
- Chronic bad breath
- Continuous bad taste in your mouth
- Pain
Is Gum Disease Contagious?
While the condition is not technically contagious, you can get some of the bacteria from other people with gum disease if you kiss or share toothbrushes with someone who has the condition. If you follow a strong daily oral health routine, you will easily remove the bacteria from your mouth, but if you are not consistent with your brushing, then you may develop gum disease.
The OraMD 4-Step Oral Hygiene Program
OraMD is a natural oral health product that can help to prevent or treat gum disease. In addition, the product website offers a four-step oral hygiene program which will maximize your oral health.