Gum disease is a common disease in the US. Over 60 million adults have some degree of gum disease, and without treatment, it can cause serious issues with your overall health.[1]
While gum disease can be addressed at any stage, the best outcomes for gum disease treatment start with early detection.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection and inflammation of the gum tissue, leading to tooth loss and jawbone erosion if left untreated.[2]
Gingivitis, which is gum inflammation, usually happens before periodontitis or advanced gum disease. It doesn’t always lead to periodontitis, however. Most people have gingivitis at some point, which can be easily treated to reverse its effects. Without treatment, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis.
In the early stage of gingivitis, plaque forms on the teeth, and bacteria builds up, causing the gums to inflame and bleed during brushing and flossing. At this stage, the gums may be red, sensitive, and irritated, but the teeth are still solidly fixed in their sockets.
If you leave plaque on your teeth because you neglect to brush, floss, and rinse with mouthwash, a sticky film of bacteria builds up around the teeth. This releases acids that attack the enamel, causing cavities (tooth decay). After a few days, plaque hardens into tartar, which forms along the gum line and makes it more difficult to keep your teeth and gums clean. This irritates the gums and causes gingivitis.
Left untreated, the irritation of the gums gets worse. The inner layer of the gum pulls away from the teeth and forms pockets. These spaces collect food particles and bacteria and become infected, creating more irritation and allowing plaque to spread and grow below the gum line.
Toxins produced in plaque and the enzymes the body creates to fight infections begin to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. The pockets continue to deepen, and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. The teeth are no longer secure and become loose.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Gum disease may progress painlessly with mild or nonexistent signs. It’s not without warning signs, however. Some symptoms include:[2]
- Gums that bleed during brushing and flossing
- Red, swollen gums
- Receding gums
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in the bite or the fit of dentures
In some people, gum disease may affect certain teeth. In others, it may affect the entire mouth. A periodontist can determine the progression of gum disease and its treatment.
Early Detection Is Vital
Whether the symptoms are severe or subtle, it’s important to seek treatment from a dentist at the earliest signs of gum disease. The faster you identify and treat gum disease, the better the outcomes will be. Here’s why:
It May Be Reversible
If gum disease is caught early, it can be completely reversed with the help of professional dental cleaning and proper oral hygiene. More severe cases of periodontal disease may require more invasive procedures like gum surgeries and bone grafts. Detecting gum disease early minimizes stress and pain.
Gum Disease Affects Your Overall Health
Gum disease impacts not only your oral health but your overall health. The bacteria associated with periodontal disease may lead to other conditions, including some types of cancer and respiratory diseases like pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Gum disease has also been linked to cardiovascular conditions, Alzheimer’s, premature births and other.
How to Prevent and Treat Gum Disease
Regular dental cleanings and checkups are the best way to prevent gum disease. Your checkups allow your dentist to examine your mouth and see the signs of gum disease early.
Oral hygiene practices are also important. Brushing and flossing at least twice a day and using mouthwash are important for keeping plaque and bacteria at bay for your gum health.
Get Gum Disease Treatment at Albion Family Dental
Early detection and treatment of gum disease are key in maintaining your oral health. If you notice the signs and symptoms of gum disease, schedule an appointment with Albion Family Dental! 585-589-9044
Sources:
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/adult-oral-health/adult_older.htm
[2] https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/gingivitis-periodontal-disease