Combatting Gum Disease Together
Periodontal disease, also referred to as gum disease, is an infection that affects the gums surrounding your teeth. It is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and its painless nature often leads to patients being unaware of its presence. As part of your routine checkup, your dentist will examine the space between your teeth and gums to identify any signs of periodontal disease.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease occurs when plaque, a sticky bacteria that forms on teeth, accumulates. If not removed through flossing, brushing, and regular dental checkups, plaque will persist and produce harmful toxins that can harm the gums. Periodontal disease develops beneath the gum line, causing the formation of small pockets that separate the gums from the teeth. This disease has two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Gingivitis — Gingivitis is the initial phase of gum disease characterized by redness, swelling, and easy bleeding of the gums. Fortunately, this stage of the disease can be effectively treated and often eliminated through regular brushing and flossing.
- Periodontitis — If not treated, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, leading to severe and irreversible damage to the gums and tooth-supporting bone. Periodontitis-infected gums can result in loose teeth, tooth loss, or extraction by a dentist.
Certain factors can increase a patient’s risk of developing periodontal disease, including:
- Smoking or using chewing tobacco
- Diabetes
- Some examples of medication include steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, calcium channel blockers, and oral contraceptives.
- Bridges that are no longer suitable
- Crooked teeth
- Old fillings
- Pregnancy
While it is possible to have periodontal disease and not know it, some symptoms can include:
- Gums that bleed easily
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste
- Pus between your teeth and gums
- If your permanent teeth are loose or starting to separate,
- If there are any alterations in the alignment of your teeth when you bite down
- Any change in the fit of partial dentures
Treating Gum Disease
The treatments for gum disease can differ based on the severity of each individual case. Common treatments may include:
- Alternative treatments, such as periodontal trays for home use and deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing, are available as non-surgical options.
- Periodontal surgery and laser gum surgery are both procedures that involve treating gum-related issues.
- Dental implants
Preventing Gum Disease
It is crucial to have regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations to ensure both your overall health and the health of your smile. You can prevent tooth loss due to periodontal disease by maintaining good oral hygiene habits at home. By brushing regularly, cleaning between your teeth, following a balanced diet, and scheduling regular dental visits, you can greatly decrease your risk of developing gum disease. Take care of your smile and prioritize your dental health.
