Gum disease is a common problem that can affect patients of any age. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and is identified by swollen and tender gum tissue. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to more damaging forms of gum disease, the most harmful being advanced periodontitis. If gingivitis is not caught and treated before it has the chance to progress, the effects of periodontitis and advanced periodontitis can cause permanent damage.
What are the signs of gum disease?
Gingivitis is the first stage and is actually quite simple to treat. As we mentioned, patients with gingivitis experience red, puffy gums that are tender or may even bleed when you brush or floss. Chronic bad breath (halitosis) is another indicator that you might have periodontal disease. If you have bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth that does not go away after brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash, you may have gum disease.
If you notice any of these symptoms of gingivitis, it is incredibly important to see your dentist for an evaluation and treatment as soon as possible. Left untreated, gingivitis will quickly progress into the second stage of gum disease called periodontitis. This can result in damage not only to the gum tissue, but the underlying bone may be affected as well. Your dentist may still be able to provide treatment, or they may need to refer you for further evaluation and treatment by a periodontist (gum specialist).
The final stage of gum disease is called advanced periodontitis and is the most damaging stage. At this point, the jawbone structure can become severely compromised as the gum tissue will pull away from the tooth structure, and the bone begins to deteriorate. At this stage, patients risk losing healthy teeth because there is not enough supporting bone and tissue structures to hold them in place.
Can I prevent gum disease?
Good oral hygiene is the first step to preventing gum disease. Using antibacterial oral care products with a soft-bristle toothbrush at least twice daily and flossing at least once daily will help ensure that your teeth remain healthy. Regular visits to your dentist, at least twice a year unless otherwise recommended, for professional cleanings and checkups will allow your dentist to identify any issues that arise.
If you have suffered from gum disease in the past or are at a higher risk of developing gum disease, your dentist may recommend that you have your teeth cleaned more often than twice per year. This may include patients who are living with diabetes, those who smoke, are pregnant, or who are genetically predisposed to periodontal issues.
If you notice any of the symptoms we discussed, see your dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation and professional cleaning. If your dentist determines that you do have periodontal disease, they may recommend a deep cleaning or may refer you to a periodontist for specialized treatment. The sooner gum disease is caught, the easier and less costly it is to treat.