erosive<\/span> lichen planus\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nTartar buildup leads to periodontitis. Tartar irritates the gums and forms pockets that fill with bacteria<\/span>, plaque and tartar. Subsequent infection<\/span> can be serious<\/p>\n<\/span>Who gets gingivitis and periodontitis?<\/span><\/h2>\nRisk factors for gingivitis and periodontitis include:<\/p>\n
\n- \nHereditary<\/span> factors<\/li>\n
- Poor or inappropriate oral hygiene practices.<\/li>\n
- Tobacco use<\/li>\n
- Immune compromise<\/li>\n
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Viral and yeast infections<\/li>\n
- Dry mouth<\/li>\n
- Hormonal changes associated with menstruation and pregnancy.<\/li>\n
- Poor nutrition<\/li>\n
- Substance abuse<\/li>\n
- Poorly fitting dental restoration<\/li>\n
- Type 1 diabetes, leukemia, Down syndrome<\/span>, Papillon-Lefevre syndrome and Crohn's disease.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/span>What are the complications of gingivitis and periodontitis?<\/span><\/h2>\nThe biggest complication of untreated gingivitis is periodontitis. Complications derived from periodontist include:<\/p>\n
\n- Loss of teeth<\/li>\n
- Increased risk of coronary heart disease<\/li>\n
- Increased risk of diabetes\n<\/li>\n
- Increased risk of respiratory diseases such as asthma.<\/li>\n
- Increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis<\/span>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
The link between periodontitis and increased risk for these serious chronic conditions is not fully understood.<\/p>\n
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<\/span>How are gingivitis and periodontitis diagnosed?<\/span><\/h2>\nThe diagnosis of gingivitis and periodontitis is based on a thorough examination of the patient's mouth, including the cheeks, gums, and tongue. Probes can be used to examine gingival<\/span> pockets<\/p>\nX-rays may also be taken to assess possible damage to the underlying bone structures.<\/p>\n
<\/span>How are gingivitis and periodontitis treated?<\/span><\/h2>\nTreatment for gingivitis includes:<\/p>\n