480-824-7778Are you experiencing sore or bleeding gums? How about bad breath that won’t go away, no matter how many mints you pop in your mouth? These could be signs of gum disease, a common yet often overlooked oral health issue. But don’t worry – in this blog post; we’ll delve deep into the different types of gum diseases, their symptoms, and their causes to help you understand the importance of caring for your gums. Keep reading to learn more!
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a condition in which the teeth gums, and other supporting structures are damaged. It is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Plaque leads to inflammation of the gums, which can eventually destroy the tissues and bones that support the teeth. Gum disease is usually diagnosed by a dentist or dental hygienist during a routine exam. The most common symptom of gum disease is bleeding from the gums during brushing or flossing. Other symptoms include:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums.
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth.
- Bad breath.
- Loose teeth.
If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your dentist immediately so the condition can be treated.
Types of Gum Disease
There are two types of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. It usually happens when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on your teeth. Plaque causes your gums to become inflamed. This can make them red, puffy, and bleed easily. Gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene.
Periodontitis is the more serious form of gum disease. It happens when the plaque and tartar below the gum line aren’t removed. This can cause the gums to pull away from your teeth, form deep pockets and eventually destroy the bone around your teeth. Periodontitis is not reversible, but it can be managed with good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings.
Symptoms and Causes of Gum Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is when the gums and other supporting structures of the teeth become irritated and inflamed. These tissues can eventually be destroyed, leading to tooth loss. Gum disease is most commonly caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. When plaque is not removed through daily brushing and flossing, it can harden and turn into tartar (calculus). Once tartar forms, it can only be removed by a dental professional.
If plaque and tartar are not removed, they will continue to irritate the gums and cause inflammation. The inflammation makes the gum tissue more susceptible to infection. When gum disease progresses to this stage, it is called gingivitis. Red, swollen and bleeding gums characterize gingivitis. Left untreated, gingivitis will progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more serious form of gum disease that can damage the bone and connective tissue supporting teeth. If left untreated, periodontitis will eventually lead to tooth loss.
Several factors can increase your risk of developing gum disease:
- Poor oral hygiene: Plaque can only form if you do not brush and floss regularly. Poor oral hygiene is the number one cause of gum disease.
- Smoking: Smoking damages gum tissue and makes it difficult for the body to fight it.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Gum Disease
Gum disease is a common condition that affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth. It is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. Plaque can cause inflammation and bleeding of the gums. If left untreated, gum disease can progress to bone and tooth loss.
There are two main types of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that only affects the gums. Periodontitis is a more severe form of gum disease that can damage the bones and connective tissues supporting teeth.
Symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums; receding gums; bad breath; and loose teeth. Gum disease is usually painless in the early stages.
A dental exam diagnoses gum disease. Treatment options for gum disease include professional cleaning, antibiotics, and surgery. Professional cleaning involves scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. Antibiotics are used to kill bacteria associated with gum disease. Surgery may be necessary to repair damage caused by gum disease or to remove infected tissue.
Prevention of Gum Disease
Good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent gum disease. This means brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. Be sure to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
If you have gum disease, there are things you can do to treat it and prevent it from getting worse. These include quitting smoking, controlling your diabetes, and caring for your teeth and gums.
The Bottom Line
Gum disease is a serious condition that can have long-lasting effects on your health and well-being. It’s important to be aware of the types, symptoms, and causes associated with gum disease so that you can take steps to prevent it. A regular oral hygiene routine, which includes brushing twice a day and flossing once a day, will go a long way in preventing gum disease from developing. If you begin to notice signs or symptoms of gum disease at any point, seek medical treatment as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment.
FAQs
1. What is gum disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the gums and bones supporting the teeth. Gum disease is caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar on the teeth, leading to gums inflammation. If left untreated, gum disease can progress to tooth loss.
2. What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums; receding gums; bad breath; and loose teeth. Gum disease can be painless, so seeing your dentist regularly for checkups is important.
3. How is gum disease treated?
Gum disease is treated by scaling and root planing, which involves removing the tartar and plaque from the teeth and roots and smoothing the root surfaces to prevent re-accumulation of plaque and tartar. In severe cases of gum disease, surgery may be required to restore the health of the gums and bones supporting the teeth.