Gum Disease

Gum disease—also known as periodontal disease—is an infection of the gums surrounding your teeth. Gum disease is one of the top reasons for tooth loss in adults, and because it is virtually pain-free, many patients don’t know they have it. During each regular checkup, your dentist will check for signs of periodontal disease by measuring the space between your teeth and gums. 

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is caused by plaque buildup (a sticky bacteria that forms on the teeth). If the plaque is not removed (by flossing, brushing, and regular dental checkups), it will build up and create toxins that can damage the gums. Periodontal disease forms just below the gum line and creates small pockets that separate the gums from the teeth. Periodontal disease has two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.

• Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease when the gums become red and swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the condition is treatable and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing.
• Periodontitis is when the gums and bones that support the teeth are irreversibly damaged due to ignoring gingivitis. Gums infected with periodontitis can cause teeth to become loose, fall out, or be removed by a dentist.

What Can You Do About Gum Disease?

Certain factors can increase a patient’s risk of developing periodontal disease, including:

• Smoking or using chewing tobacco
• Diabetes
• Certain types of medication such as steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, calcium channel blockers, and oral contraceptives
• Bridges that no longer fit properly
• 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
• Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
• Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Any change in the fit of partial dentures

Treating Gum Disease.

Treatments for gum disease can vary depending on the severity of each case. Typical treatments include:

• Non-surgical treatments such as at-home periodontal trays and scaling and root planing (deep cleaning)
• Periodontal surgery and laser gum surgery
• Dental implants

Preventing Gum Disease. 

Regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are essential for maintaining your health and the health of your smile. You don’t have to lose teeth to periodontal disease. By practicing good oral hygiene at home, you can significantly reduce your chances of getting gum disease. Remember to brush regularly, clean between your teeth, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular dental visits to help keep your smile healthy.