Periodontal or gum disease is no laughing matter. However, there is a wide spectrum of severity when it comes to periodontal disease, so if you can recognize the early signs of gum disease and can take steps to properly treat the problem, you can hopefully avoid or delay the onset of more serious stages of this condition.
Gum disease is primarily caused by plaque that is not removed on and between teeth and gums. All of this sticky plaque results from bacteria that combine with the food particles we eat and drink, as well as the mucus in our mouth. If left on the teeth and gums, plaque and tartar (which is hardened plaque) can not only negatively impact teeth, but can lead to the early stages of gum disease, also known as gingivitis.
Gingivitis is generally easy to recognize because gums become red and swollen or may bleed easily when brushing and flossing. Regular trips to the dentist will allow your dentist or dental hygienist to check for signs of gum inflammation and gingivitis. The best treatment for combating the effects of gingivitis and halting its progression is a stringent commitment to routine daily oral hygiene that includes proper brushing and flossing each day. Additionally, a regular schedule of visits to the dentist or dental hygienist should be adhered to. Typically every six months is often enough to make these visits, although if gingivitis begins to progress, your dental professional may recommend more frequent visits for routine cleanings.
As gum disease progresses, it will advance to a stage called periodontitis. This can be recognized by the gums starting to pull away from teeth, known as receding. When this occurs, a pocket forms in the space where the gum used to be that can trap bacteria and plaque, which can then become infected and lead to more serious and extensive problems. During a dental visit, the dentist or dental hygienist will typically use a thin metal pick-like tool called a probe to measure how much your gums may be receding from your teeth (how large the pocket is), which can indicate that gingivitis is progressing to this more serious form of gum disease. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to loss of bone and connective tissue and you may be at risk of losing your teeth. Advanced gum disease has also been linked to other potential health concerns.
The best way to prevent potentially serious periodontitis is to recognize the earlier signs of gingivitis and to take steps to prevent the worsening of the condition. As mentioned earlier, these include red or swollen gums, which are a sign of inflammation, as well as gums that may bleed easily or feel tender, such as when brushing or eating. Another early sign of gum disease is bad breath that won’t go away, although this can also be the result of other medical problems (some serious) and should be looked into further.
As gum disease begins to progress to more advanced stages, additional signs such as increased inflammation and receding gums (which can be recognized because the teeth appear longer since the gums have pushed back) may be noticeable. As infection under the gums becomes even more severe, teeth may become more sensitive and it may be painful to chew or bite. At its most serious stages, teeth may become loose because the underlying bone structure is compromised.
Recognizing early signs of gum disease, and making a commitment to maintain a stringent oral hygiene program, is the best way to prevent this condition from worsening. If gum disease reaches more advanced stages, you may require more invasive treatment, such as root planing and scaling, medication, surgery and even bone or tissue grafts. Being vigilant about any changes to your gums is the most effective way that you can keep your gums healthy and avoid more serious problems.
For more information about gum disease or to schedule an appointment with a dentist or periodontist to evaluate your periodontal disease, contact Park Dental Care in Queens at 718-274-1515.
