What are Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a common dental problem that affects a significant number of people. It occurs when bacteria in the dental plaque build up on the teeth and gums, causing localized inflammation of the gingiva. If left untreated, this condition can progress and cause damage to the bone that supports and surrounds your teeth.
Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the severity of gum disease and the problems it can cause. Some of the potential complications of untreated gum disease include tooth loss, bad breath, and even systemic health issues such as heart disease and diabetes.
It is essential to practice good oral hygiene, such as regular brushing and flossing, to prevent gum disease from developing. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings can also help catch and treat the condition in its early stages before it progresses further. At Asian Dental, our experienced team can provide personalized care and treatment options for gum disease to help protect your oral and overall health.
Risk factors for gum disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common dental problem that can have serious health consequences. It begins with bacterial growth in the mouth and can lead to inflammation of the gum line, which can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth. Some of the risk factors for gum disease include:
- Poor oral hygiene, including inadequate brushing and flossing
- Smoking or using other tobacco products
- Hormonal changes in women, such as during pregnancy or menopause
- Certain medications that can reduce saliva flow or cause gum tissue to grow
- Genetics or family history of gum disease
- Poor nutrition or obesity
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Premature births or low birth weight
- Osteoporosis
- Respiratory disease
- Cancer
If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and increase the risk for other illnesses. It’s important to catch gum disease early, but since it’s usually painless until there’s a problem, regular dental checkups are essential to identify and treat gum disease in its early stages.
SYMPTOMS OF GUM DISEASES
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Loosening of teeth
- Change in bite alignment (malocclusion)
- Pus formation between teeth and gums
- Pain while chewing
- Teeth sensitivity
- Tender, swollen gums
- Poorly fitting partial dentures
- Chronic bad breath
- Formation of spaces between gums and teeth
Stages of gum disease progression
Gingivitis vs. Periodontitis
Gum disease can progress from gingivitis to periodontitis, and understanding the difference between these stages is crucial in maintaining good oral health.
Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease and is characterized by inflammation and bleeding of the gums, along with a foul taste in the mouth. This stage is reversible, but it can quickly progress to periodontitis if left untreated. If you notice swollen, tender, or bleeding gums, it’s important to seek a dental check-up.
Periodontitis is a more advanced stage of gum disease that can cause irreversible damage to the tissues and bones surrounding your teeth. Signs of periodontitis include red or purple-colored gums, receding gums that pull back from the teeth, bad breath, swollen or bleeding gums, pus between the teeth, and loose teeth. While symptoms can be treated at this stage, the disease has become chronic, and without aggressive treatment, tooth loss is likely.
How to prevent, treat and reverse gum disease
Maintaining good daily dental hygiene is the best way to defend against gum disease. Brush and floss your teeth twice a day and don’t skip dental check-ups every six months. During your check-up, your dentist will check for early signs of gum disease and clean your teeth by removing any stubborn plaque or tartar.
It’s important to keep risk factors for gum disease under control. These risk factors include heredity, diabetes, smoking, alcohol use, heart disease, osteoporosis, respiratory illnesses, compromised immune systems, and the use of certain medications. If you have one or more risk factors, talk to your dentist.
Gingivitis is reversible if it’s identified and treated early. If you have the early stages of gum disease, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning to remove calculus and build-up from under and around the gum line, creating a clean environment for your gums to reattach.
If your periodontal disease is advanced, your dentist may recommend more aggressive treatment options.
FAQs
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues that support and surround the teeth. It is caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
The signs of gum disease can vary, but may include red, swollen, or bleeding gums; bad breath; loose teeth; and receding gums. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your dentist for a check-up.
The treatment for gum disease depends on the severity of the case. In mild cases, a professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene habits may be enough to reverse the disease. In more advanced cases, gum surgery may be needed to remove the bacteria and repair any damage to the gums and teeth.
Yes, gum disease can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene habits, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. It’s also important to avoid smoking and maintain a healthy diet to help keep your gums and teeth healthy.
