Gum disease is an infection of the surrounding tissues of your teeth. In adults, this can result in a loss of a tooth. Since this condition is typically painless, you may not even realize the problem until you go to a dentist.
Information About Gum Disease
Signs That You Have a Gum Disease
The other term for gum disease is periodontal disease. This is mainly caused by the buildup of plaque in your teeth. Listed below are some warning signs of this condition:
- Bleeding gums
- Tender gums that are red and swollen
- Bad taste in the mouth
- Halitosis or bad breath
- Loose permanent teeth or signs that they are separating
- Changes in the way teeth fit together when biting
- Changes in the fit of partial dentures
Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. During this stage, the toxins that are produced by the plaque buildup irritates the gums. This results in inflammation and bleeding. If gingivitis is left untreated, it may progress to a more serious condition called periodontitis or periodontal disease.
When plaque is not removed, it hardens and becomes tartar. When this tartar migrates to the gum line it invites more plaque to build up. Later on, it will create pockets in between the gums and the teeth.
Since the pockets are empty spaces, bacteria can be trapped in them, which can cause damage to the supporting tissues and bone. If left untreated, tooth loss will occur.
Who is at Risk for Gum Disease?
Adults 30 years and older often have some form of periodontal disease. Certain factors predispose one to get this condition.
Diabetes
A high blood sugar level can decrease a person’s ability to combat infections. It is imperative to keep normal blood sugar levels to prevent conditions such as gum disease.
Medications
Certain medications can decrease saliva flow which results in dry mouth. Saliva is responsible for washing away bacteria, so a dry mouth invites bacteria leading to gum diseases.
Hormonal Changes in Women
When hormones fluctuate in a woman’s body, one can have a heightened inflammatory response when plaque builds up in the mouth. This can lead to bleeding gums.
In addition, during pregnancy, women are at higher risk to develop a condition called ‘pregnancy gingivitis’. If not treated, it can develop into periodontitis.
Smoking
Smoking can increase plaque building up in your mouth, which can lead to gum disease. During smoking, there is a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream. When undergoing treatment for gum problems, smoking can slow down the healing process.
Heredity
One major factor for contracting gum disease is genetics. This makes some people more prone to gum disease than others.
The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups
It is crucial to see your dentist when you suspect that you have gum disease. Early detection can provide timely intervention to prevent worsening of the condition.
At the early stage – gingivitis – the disease is still reversible and can usually be managed by a professional dental cleaning partnered with proper oral hygiene habits at home.
Advanced stages of gum disease – periodontitis – may result in irreversible damage such as tooth loss.
It is important to be always mindful of your mouth as sometimes gum disease may show no signs at all. This is the reason why regular dental checkups are very important.
Once treated, it is essential to practice good oral practices daily at home. Brush and floss your teeth at least twice daily.
You don’t have to lose your teeth to gum disease. With proper oral health habits and regular checkups, you can have a lifetime of teeth.