What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth and is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Also referred to as periodontal disease, gum disease is caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that is constantly forming on our teeth. Because gum disease is usually painless, you may not know you have it.
Research between systemic diseases and periodontal diseases is ongoing. While a link is not conclusive, some studies indicate that severe gum disease may be associated with several other health conditions such as diabetes or stroke.
Treatment methods for gum disease depend upon the type and severity of the disease. Good dental care at home is essential to help keep periodontal disease from becoming more serious or recurring.
Risk Factors
Some of the factors that increase the risk of developing gum disease are:
- poor oral hygiene
- smoking or chewing tobacco
- genetics
- crooked teeth that are hard to keep clean
- pregnancy
- diabetes
- medications, including
- steroids
- certain types of anti-epilepsy drugs
- cancer therapy drugs
- some calcium channel blockers
- certain oral contraceptives
Gingivitis
The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily.
At this stage, the disease is still reversible and can usually be eliminated by a professional cleaning at your dental office followed by daily brushing and flossing.
Warning Signs
Here are some warning signs that can signal a problem:
- gums that bleed easily
- red, swollen, tender gums
- gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- persistent bad breath or bad taste
- 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
Periodontitis
Advanced gum disease is called periodontitis. Chronic periodontitis can lead to the loss of tissue and bone that support the teeth and it may become more severe over time. If it does, your teeth will feel loose and start moving around in your mouth. This is the most common form of periodontitis in adults but can occur at any age. It usually gets worse slowly, but there can be periods of rapid progression.
Aggressive periodontitis
Aggressive periodontitis is a highly destructive form of periodontal disease that occurs in patients who are otherwise healthy. Common features include rapid loss of tissue and bone and may occur in some areas of the mouth, or in the entire mouth.
Regular checkups are essential to prevent and treat gum disease
Gum disease is a serious condition that often has no symptoms; that is just one reason why regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are so important to maintain good oral and physical health. The sooner you treat gum disease the better. See your dentist right away if you have concerns.
Remember: You don’t have to lose teeth to gum disease. Brush your teeth twice a day, clean between your teeth daily, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular dental visits for a lifetime of healthy smiles. (ADA.org)