What is gum disease?

Periodontitis, commonly known as gum disease, is a severe infection of the gums that harms the soft tissue surrounding teeth. Left untreated, periodontitis can deteriorate the bone supporting your teeth, potentially resulting in tooth loosening or loss.

A recent CDC report related to the prevalence of periodontitis in the U.S. stated:

• 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease.
• Periodontal disease increases with age. 
• 70.1% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease.

Though periodontitis is common, it’s largely preventable. Typically, it arises from inadequate brushing and flossing routines, which permit plaque—a sticky bacterial film—to accumulate on teeth and solidify. Symptoms generally begin with swollen, red, and bleeding gums.

With that in mind, we put together a list of five things you need to know to help prevent periodontitis and protect your overall oral health.

The stages of gum disease.

As previously stated, gum disease, or periodontal disease, refers to an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues surrounding the teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and bone. It typically develops due to the accumulation of plaque that forms on teeth.

There are several stages of this disease:

Gingivitis: This is the initial stage, characterized by inflammation of the gums. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, tenderness, and bleeding during brushing or flossing. Gingivitis is reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional dental care.

Early periodontitis: If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to early periodontitis. At this stage, the infection extends below the gumline, causing the formation of pockets between the gums and teeth. These pockets trap food debris and bacteria, leading to further inflammation and damage to the surrounding tissues.

Moderate periodontitis: As the disease advances, the pockets deepen, and the supporting bone begins to deteriorate. Gums may recede, exposing more of the tooth’s surface. Individuals may experience increased sensitivity, persistent bad breath, and teeth that feel loose.

Advanced periodontitis: In the most severe stage of gum disease, there is significant destruction of the bone and soft tissue supporting the teeth. Teeth may become extremely loose or shift in position. Severe infection and tooth loss are common during this stage.

Untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss and is linked to systemic health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Addressing this disease through regular dental checkups and proper oral hygiene is essential for overall well-being.

Common Symptoms and Signs

Gum disease manifests through various signs and symptoms. Common symptoms include:

Bleeding gums: One of the earliest signs of gum disease is bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing. This occurs due to inflammation of the gums caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria along the gumline.

Bad breath/halitosis: Persistent bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing, flossing, or mouthwash can be indicative of gum disease. The odor is often a result of bacterial activity and infection in the gums.

Gum recession: As gum disease progresses, the gums may begin to recede or pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth’s root surface. Gum recession can make teeth appear longer and contribute to tooth sensitivity.

Tooth mobility: Advanced stages of gum disease can lead to the destruction of the bone supporting the teeth, causing them to become loose or mobile. This mobility is a concerning sign of severe periodontal damage and can eventually result in tooth loss if left untreated.

Other symptoms may include swollen, red, or tender gums, changes in the way teeth fit together when biting, and the formation of deep pockets between the gums and teeth. It’s essential to recognize these signs and seek prompt dental care if any symptoms of gum disease are present. Early detection and treatment can help prevent further damage to the gums and supporting structures, preserving both oral health and overall well-being.

 Risk Factors and Causes

Gum disease can develop due to a combination of risk factors and underlying causes. These include:

Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to accumulate on teeth and along the gumline. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, leading to gum inflammation and eventual gum disease if not removed through regular oral hygiene practices.

Smoking: Smoking and tobacco use significantly increase the risk of gum disease. These habits weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off gum infections. Additionally, smoking restricts blood flow to the gums, impairing their ability to heal and increasing susceptibility to gum disease.

Genetics: Genetic factors can predispose individuals to gum disease. Some people may inherit traits that make them more susceptible to developing gum problems, even with adequate oral hygiene practices.

Systemic health issues: Certain systemic health conditions, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of gum disease. Diabetes affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels, which can impair the immune response to gum infections. Other systemic conditions, such as autoimmune diseases and hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or menopause, can also impact gum health.

Poor nutrition: A diet lacking in essential nutrients, especially vitamin C, can weaken the body’s immune system and compromise gum health. Conversely, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support gum health and reduce the risk of gum disease.

Understanding these risk factors and underlying causes can help individuals take proactive steps to prevent gum disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits, avoiding smoking, managing systemic health conditions, and seeking regular dental care are essential for preserving gum health and overall well-being.

Diagnosis:

At a dental visit, a dentist or dental hygienist will perform tests to diagnose periodontal disease:

Gum evaluation: The dentist will evaluate your gums for signs of inflammation and use a tiny ruler, called a probe, to measure pockets around the teeth.

Medical history survey: The dentist will ask questions about your current medical history to ascertain if there are any risk factors or conditions that can contribute to gum disease.

X-rays: The dentist will likely take X-ray images of the teeth and mouth to see if there is any bone loss because of gum disease.

Prevention and Treatment

To prevent gum disease and maintain optimal oral health, consider the following advice:

Effective Oral Hygiene Practices:

• Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush in circular motions to remove plaque effectively.
• Floss daily to clean between teeth and along the gumline, where toothbrush bristles cannot reach.
• Consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash as part of your oral hygiene routine to help reduce plaque and gingivitis-causing bacteria.

Regular Dental Checkups:

• Schedule routine dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist at least twice a year, or as recommended by your dental professional.
• Dental visits allow for early detection and treatment of gum disease and other oral health issues. Your dentist can provide personalized advice on maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing gum disease.

Lifestyle Changes:

• Quit smoking and avoid tobacco use, as smoking increases the risk of gum disease and can impair gum healing.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit sugary snacks and beverages, as they can contribute to plaque buildup and increase the risk of gum disease.
• Manage systemic health conditions such as diabetes, as uncontrolled diabetes can worsen gum disease. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for managing your condition effectively.

By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine and lifestyle, you can significantly reduce the risk of gum disease and maintain excellent oral health for years to come. Remember that consistent oral hygiene practices, regular dental checkups, and healthy lifestyle choices are key to preventing gum disease and promoting overall well-being.

Your gum disease recovery is in your hands. 

By following these preventive measures and maintaining good oral hygiene habits, you can significantly reduce the risk of periodontitis and promote overall oral health. For early detection and treatment of gum disease, schedule your appointment with Dr. Spencer, a renowned dentist in Great Falls, Montana now.