How Do Healthy Gums Become Diseased?
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, originates from the buildup of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and irritates the gums, leading them to become red, tender, and swollen. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. This hardened tartar creates a rough surface that further irritates the gums, causing them to pull away from the teeth and form small pockets. These pockets can collect more plaque, worsening the condition and leading to the destruction of the tissue that attaches the gums to the teeth. Eventually, this process can result in the destruction of the jawbone that supports the teeth. Periodontal disease is often painless, which means many people may not realize they have it until it reaches a more advanced stage. Early diagnosis is crucial as it can significantly increase the chances of saving your teeth and halting the progression of the disease. Other factors that contribute to periodontal disease include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, improper use of dental floss and toothpicks, an unbalanced diet, vitamin C deficiency, pregnancy, and certain medications. Warning signs that may indicate the presence of gum disease include bleeding gums during brushing or flossing, red or swollen gums, pus between the teeth, loose teeth, persistent bad breath, and changes in your bite or how your dentures fit.
What is the Treatment for Gum Disease?
The type of treatment required for gum disease depends on the stage of the condition. In its early stages, professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist is typically sufficient to remove plaque and tartar. Daily brushing and flossing are essential to maintaining oral health and preventing the recurrence of gum disease. As the disease progresses to more serious stages, treatment may become more intensive. This could involve removing infected gum tissue through procedures such as scaling and root planing. In some cases, surgery might be necessary to reshape the bone around the tooth or to remove portions of the bone. In the most severe instances, tooth extraction may be required, and your dentist will guide you on the best options for tooth replacement.
Who Gets Periodontal Disease?
Gum disease typically does not become apparent until individuals are in their 30s or 40s. Men are generally more likely to develop periodontal disease compared to women. While teenagers rarely experience periodontitis, they can develop gingivitis, which is a milder form of gum disease. Gum disease commonly develops when plaque is allowed to accumulate along and under the gum line. Signs of gum disease to watch for include bleeding gums during brushing or flossing, red or swollen gums, pus between teeth, pain when chewing, tartar buildup, changes in bite, loose or shifting teeth, bad breath or a chronic bad taste, teeth sensitivity, and receding gums.
Don’t Ignore Your Oral Health
Maintaining oral health is crucial for overall well-being. A periodontal evaluation is essential if you notice symptoms of gum disease or if you have conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, or osteoporosis. Additionally, if you are considering pregnancy or have a family history of periodontal disease, a periodontal evaluation can help assess your risk and guide appropriate preventive measures. Research indicates that periodontal bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel to major organs, potentially contributing to serious conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and complications during pregnancy. Effective management of periodontal disease is crucial, especially for individuals with compromised health conditions.
Treatment and Maintenance
In the early stages of gum disease, the primary treatment involves removing plaque and tartar through professional cleanings. Regular cleanings, twice-daily brushing, and daily flossing are key components of effective treatment. For those with more advanced periodontal issues, ongoing maintenance care is essential. This includes periodic check-ups, updates of medical and dental histories, extraoral and intraoral soft tissue exams, dental exams including cancer screening, and continuous monitoring of plaque control. Successful long-term management of periodontal disease relies on consistent, supportive periodontal treatment. A personalized maintenance program will help monitor the disease and ensure effective plaque control, ultimately supporting long-term oral health. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns regarding gum disease or its treatment. We are here to provide guidance and support for your dental health.
